WILMINGTON — Three months after a missing teen was found dead, her half-brother, suspected as the murderer, made his second appearance in New Hanover County Superior Court.
Thursday morning, 25-year-old Jahreese Jones appeared before Judge Phyllis Gorham. The District Attorney’s office announced it would be trying the case capitally, meaning the death penalty is on the table.
READ MORE: After ‘extensive’ two-week search, Wilmington teen found dead in Pender County
Jahreese was arrested by the Wilmington Police Department Nov. 18, the day after authorities announced 16-year-old Miyanna Jones was found dead.
Miyanna was missing for two weeks, last seen Nov. 2 in the 1110 block of S. 7th St. Her body was discovered in Pender County following an extensive search, including within the local landfill for two days, by area law enforcement.
Jahreese is being charged with first-degree murder and being held without bond. His first appearance in court was Nov. 7 where he was handed a $1.4-million bond for additional charges including first-degree kidnapping, first-degree rape and assault by strangulation, as well as possession of a firearm by a felon and parole violation.
Also being charged is Jahreese’s girlfriend, Randi Johnson, for obstruction of justice. In addition, 61-year-old Judy McKnight has been charged with a felony for obstructing justice and is being held under a $100,000 secured bond.
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