By Sarah Karush, The Associated Press
DETROIT (AP) -- A man charged with killing two police officers was ordered Wednesday to stand trial in the deaths.
Judge Izetta Bright ruled there was sufficient evidence for Eric Marshall, 23, to be tried on murder charges. He faces a mandatory penalty of life in prison without parole if convicted.
Marshall’s preliminary examination in 36th District Court had been postponed a day earlier to give the defense time to interview a key prosecution witness. Defense attorney Kerry Jackson said he read the witness’ statement for the first time just before the hearing began.
Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor Elizabeth Walker disputed Jackson’s claim.
After Bright adjourned the hearing, Jackson was permitted to interview the witness, Tamara Reed, on the spot after the courtroom had been cleared.
Reed, identified by prosecutors as an 18-year-old prostitute, had been detained as a material witness, her attorney, Henry Scharg, said. She testified about the shooting at Wednesday’s hearing.
Detroit police Officers Jennifer Fettig and Matthew Bowens were shot during a traffic stop early in the morning on Feb. 16. Bowens, 21, was pronounced dead upon arrival at a hospital, while Fettig, 26, died later in the day.
Marshall’s circuit court arraignment was set for July 21.