News

Court hearing for Smithers

Photo: Comstock, Photos.com

Dec 7, 2012 at 6:24 am

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (KNSI) A court-appointed examiner and a probation agent have concluded that 17 year-old Jesse Smithers meets the criteria necessary in order to be charged as an adult in the death of Colton Gleason.

Smithers is alleged to have punched Gleason in a St. Cloud alley the night of September 21st. Gleason fell backward and struck his head. He was taken to St. Cloud Hospital where he died.

A court hearing on whether to certify Smithers to stand trial in adult court was held Wednesday. Judge Frank Kundrat is not expected to make his ruling until next month.

Smithers is charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter and assault. Through his attorney, Smithers has denied having any involvement in Gleason's death.