WORTHINGTON - A criminal proceeding involving three out-of-area individuals allegedly involved in an armed burglary of a Worthington residence moved forward in Nobles County District Court this week.
Jakwan M. Horton, 17, of Bellingham, pleaded guilty Wednesday to felony first-degree burglary - possession of a dangerous weapon/explosive. The juvenile’s plea agreement calls for the dismissal of three other charges filed in December 2017 after his involvement in the armed burglary of a Worthington residence that allegedly involved drugs, an AR-15 and other dangerous weapons. Because the juvenile is older than 16 and has been charged with a felony, his case is public, but his mugshot is not.
If Horton is sentenced in accordance with his plea agreement, he would receive a stay of execution upon compliance with juvenile probation, which would expire when he turns 21 in July 2021. His lawyer could argue that he be allowed to participate in programming at Prairie Lakes Youth Programs, an alternative program facility for youths. He would also be required to complete 40 hours of community service.
Earlier in March, a suspected accomplice, Albert Hughes, 19, of Montevideo, filed a petition to enter a guilty plea to felony first-degree burglary. His plea hearing is scheduled for April 25 in Nobles County District Court.
Hughes’ plea agreement outlines a variety of arrangements with the state, including cooperation with law enforcement interviews. Five other charges would be dismissed if the plea agreement is accepted.
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The third suspect facing charges, Christian R. Walls, 18, of Montevideo, has a jury trial scheduled for July 25.
The trio were charged after allegedly threatening and forcing a young woman to drive them to the Worthington residence with the intent of stealing marijuana and other items. The three allegedly broke into the residence, donning bandanas and multiple weapons while the residence occupants were home. The alleged victims chased after them in a vehicle and both parties spun out in the ditch and one witness said he heard the click of a trigger, although the firearm did not discharge. No injuries were reported.
