Bethel Street murder suspect to seek bond reduction

Trial was delayed earlier this year by the pandemic for the suspect accused in the January, 2019 shooting death of Corvyan Thomas on Bethel Street.

Judge John Atkins scheduled an August 2 trial for Shakkory Willis in March and he’s remained in custody since his arrest over two years ago.

Defense Attorney Eric Bearden says he will be requesting a bond reduction and Judge Atkins told him to file a formal motion by May 7 and Commonwealth’s Attorney Rick Boling will have time to respond.

Willis is charged with murder, first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery and unlawful transaction with a minor. Willis is accused of shooting Thomas in an attempted robbery where Dylan Stewart was also shot in the leg during the incident.

Willis’ co-defendants—Korey Zivotin, James Yates, Lane Carter, Tia Ochs and Madison Wilson—have all accepted plea deals for their roles in the incident. Zivotin, who is 16-years old, must serve at least 85 percent of a 15 year sentence for shooting Stewart.