Another suspect takes plea deal in killing | Crime

COVINGTON, Ky. (AP) - A second suspect in the killing of a man and the burning of his body has accepted a plea deal in Covington.

Patrick Cooke of Covington pleaded guilty on Monday to facilitation to murder, first-degree robbery and tampering with physical evidence.

The 26-year-old Cooke also agreed to testify against others in the beating and strangulation killing of Shawn Davis in January 2009.

The commonwealth is recommending Cooke be sentenced to 25 years in prison. He would be eligible for parole after serving half of the term. Mary Ann Hartbarger pleaded guilty in January to a reduced charge and Samantha Mayes is discussing a plea deal.

The commonwealth wants the death penalty for Marion Lawson Parker III, whose murder trial is scheduled for Aug. 9.

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