Actions

Death penalty charge read to suspect in killing of Boone County sheriff's deputy

Dep. Jacob Pickett was shot on March 2
Posted
and last updated

BOONE COUNTY, Ind. -- The man charged with murder in the fatal shooting of Boone County Sheriff's Deputy Jacob Pickett heard a death penalty charge read to him Friday in court.

Anthony Baumgardt, 21, is accused of killing Pickett on March 2 after fleeing from law enforcement officers.

There was heavy security as Baumgardt arrived at the courthouse, and five armed deputies surrounded him in the courtroom.

A judge read Baumgardt his rights and explained the process of what happens in a death penalty trial.

Baumgardt had no questions for the judge.

During his initial hearing last month, Baumgardt asked the judge if he could seek the death penalty on his own. He also told reporters he had no remorse for the shooting.

Baumgardt's court-appointed attorney, Allan Reid, had some very specific directions for his client as he entered court on Friday. Watch below:

 

This is the third time ever that the Boone County prosecutor has called for the death penalty. Todd Meyer announced his decision last Tuesday.

The prosecutor and Baumgardt's attorney say it could be years before we learn the accused man's fate.

Full comments from Baumgardt's attorney below:

 

MORE | Accused killer of Boone County sheriff's deputy sharing photos on social media from behind bars | Man accused of killing Boone County Deputy Jacob Pickett moved for protection | Father of deputy shooting suspect says it "was a monster" who shot Deputy Pickett