Desmonte Leonard, charged with the murders of three people at an Auburn apartment complex, will not be able to visit the scene of the June 2012 shooting, a judge ruled Tuesday.
According to the Opelika-Auburn News, Circuit Judge Jacob A. Walker III denied a motion that would have allowed Montgomery native Leonard to visit Tiger Lodge, formerly University Heights Apartments. The apartment complex was the site of a June 9, 2012 shooting that resulted in the death of Demario Pitts and former Auburn football players Ladarious Phillips and Ed Christian.
In his order, Walker said there would be a safety risk in transporting Leonard to the complex, which is now privately owned. He also stated he could not recall a case where a defendant being held without bond was allowed to visit a crime scene.
Walker also said that a visit to the scene would jeopardize Leonard's chance at a fair trial. He noted cameras on cell phones would make it difficult to keep the investigation out of the public eye.
"Without a way to ensure the confidentiality of the defendant's investigative process, the ability of the parties to select an impartial jury may be compromised," Walker stated. "Furthermore, the Court cannot ensure adequate supervision of the defendant by law enforcement and simultaneously accommodate the defense counsel's request to safeguard attorney-client privilege at the scene."
Leonard's defense attorneys have said that it was crucial for Leonard to visit the complex, but the motion has been repeatedly objected by the state.
Leonard, 22, is charged with capital murder, attempted murder and assault. His status hearing is scheduled for Oct. 15.
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