Burglary suspect in SEMO assault case waives preliminary hearing

A Southeast Missouri State University student charged with felony burglary for allegedly entering a residence on Dunklin Street where a fellow student was assaulted waived his right to a preliminary hearing Tuesday before Associate Circuit Judge Scott Thomsen.

According to an affidavit filed in the case, Derek Gohn, 19, entered the Dunklin Street home with four other students. He allegedly didn't participate in the beating of Blake Carlton, 21, but flipped over a table in the residence.

Carlton, a junior from St. Louis majoring in international business, said he blacked out and woke up in the bathroom. His injuries included a black eye and a blow to the head.

Derek Gohn

Three other students involved in the assault -- Jared Goodson, Brett Jones and Pili Showers -- have been granted changes of venue to New Madrid County.

Antonio Garritano, another co-defendant in the case, will appear in court May 25 at the Cape Girardeau County Courthouse.

Gohn, listed as a freshman linebacker for Southeast, has prior convictions in St. Charles County. Gohn twice pleaded guilty to theft ­-- a misdemeanor charge in July and a felony charge in June, according to Missouri Case.net.

Gohn's next court date is April 26.

ehevern@semissourian.com

388-3635

Pertinent Address:

1325 Dunklin St., Cape Girardeau, MO