Trial Date Set for Marion County Man Accused of Killing Police Officer

Trial Date Set for Marion County Man in Police Officer’s Death

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – We’ve got an important update on a case that has captured the attention of many in our community. A new trial has been scheduled for Jaremy Smith, the Marion County man accused of killing a New Mexico state police officer. According to legal documents filed on Wednesday, Smith’s federal trial is now set to begin on October 21 in New Mexico. This case is indeed a heavy one, as it involves serious allegations that have shaken both law enforcement communities and local citizens alike.

Background of the Case

So, what led us to this point? Jaremy Smith has pleaded not guilty to federal charges connected to the tragic death of Officer Justin Hare. But the story doesn’t stop there. Smith is also facing charges back in South Carolina for the death of Phonesia Machado-Fore, a paramedic from Florence County. It’s a complex web of incidents that unfolded earlier this year, and here’s what we know.

In March, Smith is accused of shooting and killing Machado-Fore. Following this tragic event, it’s alleged that he stole her BMW and embarked on a journey that ended in New Mexico. Just two days later, police report that Smith shot Officer Hare. Officer Hare had stopped to assist Smith, who was reportedly dealing with a flat tire. Instead of receiving help, Hare was tragically shot. In an even more shocking twist, Smith is accused of taking Hare’s patrol car after this incident.

The Charges Smith Faces

Smith is now looking at serious federal charges including carjacking resulting in death and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in connection with the shooting of Officer Hare. Federal prosecutors have also indicated they will not seek the death penalty against Smith, which may ease some concerns regarding the direction this case could take.

Trial Details

Initially, Smith was scheduled to go to trial in September, but as it goes with complex cases, a judge determined that it was simply unrealistic to hold a trial within the previously set time limits. The details surrounding this case are extensive, and documentation alone has been staggering—approximately 20,000 pages of discovery material has been provided to the defense. This mountain of paperwork includes everything from police reports to videos, phone records, and forensic evidence.

Ongoing Investigation

As the court documents specify, this investigation is far from being over. It’s a large and intricate case that involves both federal and state law enforcement agencies from various locations, including New Mexico and South Carolina. The complexities of the case are ongoing, with extensive forensic testing of evidence collected from both states still in progress.

What’s Next?

As the trial date approaches, many in the community are left waiting for further developments. It’s undoubtedly a tense period for everyone involved, especially those who were close to the victims. With the investigation still underway, authorities have made it clear that more information could come to light as the trial draws near.

Stay tuned as we continue to follow this important case. The community has been closely watching, and we all hope for justice for those affected by these heartbreaking events.