Flint, Michigan – Federal prosecutors have announced that they will not seek the death penalty in the case of Darel T. King, who is charged with a homicide that resulted in one person’s death and injuries to another individual. The decision comes after audio recordings of the incident were captured by individuals playing PlayStation with the victim online.
U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison stated in a federal brief that King is facing charges of affecting commerce by robbery, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and committing murder with a firearm. While Michigan does not have a state-level death penalty, federal law allows for the death penalty in all 50 states and territories, although it is rarely used.
Federal prosecutors are authorized to pursue the death penalty if they determine that the circumstances of the crime warrant such a severe punishment. The decision on seeking the death penalty ultimately lies with the U.S. Attorney General, following the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Justice.
According to procedure, any capital case in which the death penalty is a possibility must be reviewed by the local U.S. attorney, who then submits a recommendation to the Attorney General’s Capital Review Committee. The defense counsel must also be given the opportunity to present information that could influence the decision.
King stands accused of fatally shooting Daushawn Guthridge on July 10, 2019, in Flint. When police responded to the scene of the crime, they found Guthridge deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. Another individual in the home, a woman, had been shot in the foot and buttocks but survived her injuries.
Reports indicate that Guthridge was robbed of money, marijuana, and cocaine during the incident. The shootings and robbery occurred while Guthridge was playing an online video game, with audio recordings capturing the events. One of the gamers involved sent the video to authorities, leading to King’s arrest.
Witnesses identified King’s voice in the audio recordings, including individuals playing the game with Guthridge at the time of the incident. Prosecutors will not be pursuing the death penalty in this case, following the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Justice.