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Calhoun County district court Judge Randy Moeller found enough probable cause to bind to a grand jury the murder case of a juvenile victim that was shot and killed on New Years Eve in Piedmont.
On Dec. 31, just before midnight, Paul Joshua Baker, 19, of Piedmont, allegedly shot and killed a 13-year-old boy at the 4000 block of Old Piedmont-Gadsden highway in Piedmont, officials stated in a news release.
Baker was represented in the courtroom Tuesday by defense attorney Chris Barker.
It was stated that during the initial bond hearing after the event an Aniah’s Law hearing was requested and testimony was heard to determine if there was “intent” to kill the victim or not.
During Tuesday’s preliminary hearing, Barker told the judge he found the arguments regarding the suspects intent “weak.” Barker made a motion to reduce Baker’s bond from the original $500,000.
Assistant District Attorney Lynn Hammond argued that Baker had made statements the night of the incident prior to the murder showing clear intent.
Moeller ultimately denied the defense’s motion to reduce bond, and bound the case over to a grand jury.
Baker is being held on the original $500,000 bond in the Calhoun County Jail.
Staff Writer Ashley Morrison: 256-236-1551. On Twitter: @AshMorrison1105.
