Edsel R. Johnson pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, reckless driving and battery in the May 9 shooting of Bradley Rex near Stateline Speedway in Idaho.
Stateline Shooting Charges
Prosecutors initially charged Johnson with first-degree murder, reckless driving and battery. Prosecutors said Johnson shot Rex in the chest. The guilty plea reduces the homicide charge to voluntary manslaughter.
Johnson entered a Rule 11 plea agreement. Judge Regina McCrea has not yet decided whether to accept it. Stan Mortensen described the arrangement as a compromise, saying, “A plea agreement is a compromise.”
Proposed Sentence and Sentencing Date
Under the proposed agreement, prosecutors would recommend a 15-year sentence, with parole eligibility after four years. The agreement also calls for dismissal of a sentencing enhancement.
Voluntary manslaughter carries a maximum possible penalty of 15 years. Reckless driving and battery each carry maximum jail terms of six months.
McCrea will consider the agreement after Johnson completes a presentence investigation. If the judge rejects the deal, Johnson may withdraw his guilty pleas. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 19.