Murder suspect to get a different attorney

A Cape Girardeau man accused of gunning down two of his neighbors had his case continued Monday to allow time for a change of attorney.

Two public defenders have represented Kenneth Bell, who faces charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

Patti Tucka inherited Bell's case from Michael Sato, who left the area in June to take a position with the public defender's office in the Northern Mariana Islands.

On Monday, Circuit Judge Benjamin Lewis continued the case to Oct. 15 in response to a request for another change of attorney.

The reason for the request was not clear.

Outside the courtroom, Tucka declined to comment on the case.

According to testimony at a March 7 hearing, Bell shot Shannon James and Misty Cole at their apartment at 401 S. Pacific St. after a verbal altercation on the sidewalk.

During the hearing, a Cape Girardeau detective said Bell, who lived in the same building, told him he did not know James and Cole by name.

Pertinent address:

401 S. Pacific St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.