Подсудимый по делу о двойном убийстве в Канзасе подал ходатайство о праве на последнее слово перед судом присяжных

Cullum files third round of pre-trial motions ahead of death penalty trial TEXAS COUNTY, Okla. (KFDA) - One of five people charged with the murders of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley has filed a third set of pre-trial motions ahead of his death penalty trial. Tad Cullum is accused, along with four others, of murdering the two Kansas mothers in March 2024. His trial is scheduled to begin in two months. Thirteen motions were filed last week with the Texas County Court, marking Cullum’s third set of initial pre-trial motions. Among the notable filings is a motion to require the state to provide victim impact statements and details of victim impact evidence prior to trial. Cullum has also filed a motion that would allow him to make a statement to the jury during sentencing if found guilty. In court documents, he says he wishes to make a plea for mercy by asking for leniency or understanding in the jury’s decision. He does not intend to deny his guilt. The motion states it violates common decency and humanity to allow him to be sentenced to death by a jury that has never heard his voice. Cullum’s attorneys also object to the state’s request not to bring up the accused abuse of the children in the trial. His attorneys argue the abuse contributed to his state of mind and beliefs during the murders. To view all motions filed by the defense and the state’s response, click here. One more motion hearing is scheduled for September 23, with a pre-trial conference set for September 30. Jury trial is scheduled to begin October 19 at 9 a.m. in Texas County. Copyright 2026 KFDA. All rights reserved.