Prosecutors to seek death penalty against Marcus Wesson

KESQ News/August 11, 2004

Fresno, Calif. -- Prosecutors will be seeking the death penalty against the Fresno man charged with killing nine of his family members.

Fresno County District Attorney Elizabeth Egan says her office decided to pursue the death penalty against Marcus Wesson after "a careful review of the facts and applicable law."

Meanwhile, a hearing is scheduled in Fresno County Superior Court today to discuss pushing the trial back from September 14th until mid-December.

Wesson's defense also wants to move the trial to another county. A hearing on the change of venue request is scheduled for next week.

Wesson is charged with shooting nine of his children earlier this year. The victims ranged from ages one to 25.

The 57-year-old Wesson is also accused of 13 sex crimes, including rape, with each of the victims believed to be family members.

He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.