UPDATE: McGraw Rejects Plea Deal

Описание: A shocking moment in court this morning. Travis McGraw, the man accused of killing his wife Vanessa Mintz, told the court he is not guilty and he rejects a plea agreement in this first-degree murder case.

Mcgraw's attorney came to court this morning prepared to accept the agreement, but his client had other ideas.

The prosecutor was surprised as well and told the judge that McGraw had rejected the plea and wanted to go to trial for the murder of his wife.

Family members of Vanessa Mintz appeared to be surprised as well.

February 19th, 2011, Mintz was found dead at her family's Saluda mountain lodge. Deputies say she was shot to death.

Less than a week later deputies arrested Travis McGraw and charged him with murder.

Today, he stood with his attorney, said "no" to the plea agreement, and pled "not guilty" to the first degree murder charge.

Both families have waited three years for a plea or a trial.

Jessica Freeman, victim's daughter, "we ask that you continue praying because we have been told today that we will carry on to the original court date of May 19th."

Willie McGraw, defendant's father, "it wasn't totally a surprise to me, you know, there was some hesitation on my part, but I've always encouraged him to make good decisions and I think he did."

McGraw walked out of the courtroom with his attorney this morning. He's been out on bond.

The judge denied a motion from prosecutors to set a new bond that could have put him in custody. The trial is set for May 19th.

Related Links
Remembering Vanessa

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