Motions hearing Tuesday in murder trial

McCOOK, Nebraska -- A motions hearing is scheduled in the murder case against 20-year-old Stathis Kirkpatrick for Tuesday, 9 a.m., in Red Willow County District Court. Kirkpatrick is the Bartley, Nebraska, man charged with first degree murder and other offenses stemming from the 2011 death of 14-year-old Kailee Clapp of McCook.

Red Willow County District Court Judge David Urbom will preside over the motions hearing, both the prosecution and defense have filed motions that will be considered.

The prosecution has filed a motion to offer additional evidence and another to file amended information. Kirkpatrick's defense has filed a motion to suppress evidence, as well as to suppress statements Kirkpatrick made.

Several individuals have been subpoenaed to give testimony during the hearing.

Kirkpatrick's defense has also filed a notice of intent stating they would rely upon the insanity defense at trial. Kirkpatrick is in custody at Phelps County Jail in Holdrege, Nebraska.

Kirkpatrick is charged with first degree murder, use of a knife or deadly weapon to commit a felony, tampering with physical evidence and unlawful burial.

If convicted the minimum penalty for a first degree murder charge, a Class I or IA felony, is life in prison without parole; the maximum is the death penalty.