Murder suspect enters insanity plea

Ashley D. Myers, 30, Friday entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity to a charge of first degree murder of Kenneth Allen, 55, Sept. 28 on the Airport Road near Highway 26. Judge pro tem David Frazier scheduled a Dec. 10 trial date for the case.

Defense Attorney Steve Martonick said Myers reserves the right to change her plea later and follow the normal course to a trial. He said Myers is now undergoing examination by a psychiatrist while she is in jail.

Judge Frazier informed the defendant that an insanity plea could result in her commitment to a mental institution.

Prosecutor Denis Tracy said he intends to ask the court to set a time schedule. He pointed out the state will need to have an examination finding from the defense before the state can proceed with hiring an examiner to prepare a response.

Martonick presented a written plea of not guilty to a second charge of possession of methamphetamine.