Clarke County Suspects in Court
The suspects in the death of Nathan Baker, Keith Davis and Jo Ann Davis, made their initial appearances in court Thursday afternoon.
Clarke County authorities are calling it a case like none other they've handled.
Security was high as people turned out to almost pack the courtroom.
Both defendants and some officers wore bullet proof vests. Clarke County Sheriff Todd Kemp says the heightened security measures were warranted, mostly due to threats being made on Facebook.
"We have no idea what could happen based on the threats I have read and I have heard," said Kemp. "So, I have to prepare for the worst and I may take some criticism for that, but I'm man enough to stand up and man up and do what I have to do."
To help assist with security, Sheriff Kemp says he requested assistance from the Mississippi Highway Patrol's security details. Quitman police, county deputies and constables were also on hand.
At the request of prosecutors, 36-year-old Keith Allen Davis was issued a $600,000 bond. In order for him to be released from jail, Justice Court Judge Marcell Goodman says he must pay 100 percent of that bond.
As he was transported, Newscenter 11 asked Davis if he had anything to say.
"I'm sorry for what I did," said Davis.
"We tried in every way possible to try to make a capital offense out of this, but the evidence doesn't show that at this point," Kemp said. "So, we're stuck at a murder charge."
Jo Ann Davis is charged with accessory after the fact to murder. Bond for the 33-year-old was set at $100,000.
Both suspects' cases are set to go before a Clarke County grand jury in September.
The couple's 14-year-old son is also charged in the case. He's accused of helping dispose of the victim's body. Because of his age, his identity is not being released and his case is being handled in youth court.
Weather for Meridian, Mississippi
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