In Phoenix, the trial of Cleophus Cooksey Jr., accused of a series of eight murders in late 2017, commenced after multiple delays due to the pandemic. Cooksey, 43, was arrested after police responded to a bloody apartment where his mother and stepfather were found dead. Evidence from the scene linked him to four other killings: a gun, a victim’s necklace, and car keys belonging to a deceased woman were all discovered. Cooksey, who claims he is innocent and has pleaded not guilty, faces potential death penalty if convicted.
During opening statements, prosecutor Josh Maxwell described the victims as vulnerable individuals, asserting that Cooksey is the clear perpetrator. Defense attorney Robert Reinhardt countered, emphasizing the lack of a clear motive and suggesting that the crimes appeared random and disconnected. Unlike prior serial shooting cases that caused significant public fear in Phoenix, Cooksey’s actions drew little attention until his arrest.
The killings began on November 27, 2017. Cooksey, recently released from prison for a previous robbery, shot his first victims, Parker Smith and Andrew Remillard, in a vehicle. Other victims included a security guard and individuals found in separate incidents, with one woman’s body discovered in an alley after being sexually assaulted. Evidence such as the murder weapon and Cooksey’s DNA was integral to the prosecution’s case.
Despite his insistence on innocence and a desire for a swift trial, Cooksey’s proceedings faced setbacks. His case is intricately tied to previous serial shooting scares in the region, raising community tensions and complicating law enforcement’s response to violent crimes. Cooksey’s trial is anticipated to span over eight months, with significant media and public interest.
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