The last defendant to face justice for the 2022 robbery and murder at a Havensight jewelry store changed his mind about accepting a plea deal. Through a filing by his lawyer in Superior Court Tuesday, accused gunman Jahmar Lewis said he’d rather take his chances at trial.
Lewis is one of three armed individuals accused of robbing Glitters Jewelry Store on Dec. 4, 2022, and shooting two people inside the store. One of the wounded victims — customer Gregoriana Julien — died from her injuries on Jan. 1, 2023.
A store security guard survived but was badly injured, according to authorities.
Three other people arrested and charged in connection with the case — Michiah Cozier, Akenda Weeks, and Junior Garcia — changed their pleas to guilty and are scheduled for sentencing on Oct. 16. In late July, it appeared the remaining defendant would also take steps to avoid a jury trial.
At an Aug. 8 hearing before Superior Court Judge Carol Thomas-Jacobs, defense attorney David Cattie said his client wanted more time before changing his not guilty plea. “ The Court heard from Defense counsel who stated we did have a signed plea in this case, but my client received some additional information which was filed under seal in this case; we are requesting additional time to consider that information along with the plea offer,” Cattie said.
At trial, Lewis faces 44 criminal counts, including first-degree murder, kidnapping, attempted murder, assault, robbery, grand larceny, conspiracy, and related illegal weapons charges. Thomas-Jacobs offered to reschedule the hearing to Aug. 22 and admonished Lewis to consider the penalty awaiting him if jurors find him guilty.
“You understand the penalty is way more than what this plea is?” the judge asked.
“Yes, your honor,” Lewis said.
But with Tuesday’s motion for withdrawal, it will be up to the judge as to what comes next. Jury selection on Sept. 22 at 9 a.m. is the most likely option, as mentioned at the August hearing.
St. Croix Source
Local news, Police & Courts
