HILLSBORO, Ohio (AP) — A southwest Ohio grand jury has indicted a 19-year-old man on charges including aggravated murder in the death of his 5-year-old niece.
However, the prosecutor decided not to seek the death penalty for Matthew Pierson. Highland County Prosecutor Anneka (AN'-ee-kuh) Collins on Tuesday cited factors including Pierson's youth and his lack of significant prior criminal history for her decision.
Pierson could face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted.
Police have said the body of Jada Beth Williams was found Aug. 12 in a plastic container in the garage of the home where she lived with her uncle and grandmother. Police believe she was beaten with a tool.
Pierson also is charged with abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence.
A message was left for his attorney.
