State to Seek Death Against Campbell

Cumberland County prosecutors have announced their intention to seek the death penalty against Roymari Campbell, who stands accused of two 2007 homicides.

Meanwhile, prosecutors declined to seek death against two other murder defendants, including one who beat a man to death on Christmas Eve.

Hester Trial Underway

In Bladen County, jurors have heard opening arguments in the capital murder trial of John Franklin Hester.  In addition to first-degree murder, Hester is also charged with assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and second-degree kidnapping.  He could face the death penalty if convicted.