Christopher Jermaine Jones (DOB 6/5/87) pled guilty today to 35 counts of aggravated assault, vehicular theft, unlawful flight, leaving the scene of an accident, endangerment, criminal trespass, and criminal damage.  The charges stem from a July 2007 incident in which Jones stole two vehicles and fled police, ultimately resulting in a high-speed chase.  Jones was eventually arrested after a standoff with officers.  The standoff also ended with two television helicopters colliding over Steele Indian School Park.  Pilot Scott Bowerbank and photographer Jim Cox of Channel 3 and pilot Craig Smith and photographer Rick Krolak of Channel 15 all died in the crash.

Due to the number and severity of the charges against him, Jones faces a maximum sentence of up to 467 years.  Sentencing is scheduled for September 10 in front of Judge Harrison.  Deputy County Attorney Kristin Sherman prosecuted the case.

County Attorney Rick Romley stated, “The defendant’s plea brings us one step closer to closure in the judicial phase of this tragedy.  The newsmen whose lives were lost will always be remembered for their sacrifice.”