Artadi case sees another continuance

William Artadi, the 20-year-old Jackson man who last year pleaded guilty to 13 counts of burglary, saw his sentencing date rescheduled for a fifth time Monday as his new lawyer acclimates herself to the intricacies of the criminal case.

Judge William Syler continued the hearing until March 18, meaning the judge will expect an answer from Artadi at that time as to whether he intends to withdraw his guilty plea. Artadi, one of three men charged in a monthlong spree, had 20 counts in connection to the burglaries, but that number was reduced through a plea deal.

While Artadi's co-defendants -- Jacob Colyott and Aaron Denson -- were sentenced to probation by Judge Benjamin Lewis, Syler rejected Artadi's deal, saying he thought any deal that didn't allow for a 10-year sentence was inappropriate in light of the crimes. The deal allowed Syler three options: a five-year prison sentence, 120 days shock incarceration to be followed by probation, or a full year in the county jail.

Artadi is on his third lawyer since he was arrested Aug. 1. His current lawyer, Jennifer Booth, told Syler she needed more time to study the case before her client decides how he wants to proceed.

Pertinent address:

100 Court St., Jackson, Mo.