BOONE COUNTY COURTHOUSE -- Update: Monday, April 11 at 5:45 p.m.:
An Audrain County man accused of killing an Ohio drifter will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Chester Harvey, Jr. pleaded guilty on Monday afternoon to the 2009 murder of James McNeely.
Chester Harvey, Jr. took the stand and told a judge that he wants to take full responsibility for the murder of McNeely in effort to help his wife and children who also face charges in the killing.
Harvey was sentenced to charges of first degree murder, kidnapping, abandonment of a corpse, and armed criminal action.
Harvey said he suffocated McNeely with a garbage bag to protect his family.
While on the stand Harvey said, “I’m taking full responsibility for all crimes related to the death of James McNeely. I recognize that what I did to him was wrong and that he is a victim. I ask that the court and the state have mercy on my wife and sons. These crimes were committed because of my decisions and my actions. My wife and sons had no control or choice. It’s not fair that their lives be destroyed because of my decisions. They are victims, too.”
Chester Harvey’s defense attorney said he did not recommend that his client plead guilty to consecutive, maximum sentences.
Justin Carver wanted Harvey’s case to go to trial.
Carver said, “By him acknowledging his involvement, that hopefully, makes it clear that he is the one who should be held responsible for these things.”
Chester's wife Angela Harvey also faces charges in the murder.
She is scheduled to appear in Boone County Court on Monday.
The Harvey’s 3 sons were also charged in the murder.
One son, Chad, was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty.
Original Story:
Chester Harvey pleaded guilty on Monday to first-degree murder charges. He was sentenced to live in prison without parole.
He was charged with kidnapping, abandonment of a corpse, and armed criminal action in the December 2009 death of Ohio man, James McNeely, in addition to the first-degree murder charge.
Chester's wife Angela Harvey also faces charges in the murder. She will be in court Monday in Boone County as well.
The Harvey's three sons were also charged in the murder.
One son, Chad, was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty.
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