MORGANTOWN — The sentencing of Gary Smith II, 60, of Morgantown, has been postponed. Smith previously entered an Alford plea to the charge of the first degree murder of Alexa Randolph, 32, of Greenmont, in Morgantown.
Randolph, who was the mother of Smith’s grandson, was reported missing Jan. 28 and found dead in her car on Jan. 29 at a shopping center off Grafton Road.
An Alford plea is not an admission of guilt by the defendant but shows his recognition that there may be enough evidence for a jury to convict him.
Smith appeared by video from North Central Regional Jail for his sentencing hearing Tuesday afternoon and immediately requested to speak with the judge. Smith told Judge Susan Tucker that he felt he had not been provided with full discovery by court-appointed attorney Chris Wilson and would like new representation. Smith said he also felt he had been “forced to sign” his plea agreement.
Tucker asked Wilson if he felt communication had broken down between him and Smith. Wilson agreed and made an oral motion to be relieved from council.
Tucker granted the motion, but reminded Smith that he has signed a binding plea agreement. Tucker will appoint a new attorney to Smith and the sentencing will be rescheduled to a later date.
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