By Trend News Line 2024-05-07 12:13:59.
Conviction in St. Cloud Homicide Case
An individual involved in a 2022 homicide case in St. Cloud has been sentenced to prison after entering an Alford plea. Alphonso Cotto, represented by his attorneys, maintained his innocence while acknowledging that there was sufficient evidence to potentially convict him of the crimes he was charged with. The charges against Cotto included first degree murder while committing or attempting to commit aggravated robbery, intentional second degree murder, felon in possession of ammunition or a firearm, and aiding and abetting second degree murder. Ultimately, Cotto pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder, leading to the dropping of the other charges. As a result, he received a sentence of just over 22 years.
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The Tragic Incident
The incident took place on May 24th, 2022, when authorities responded to a call in the 1200 block of 10th Avenue South in St. Cloud. The victim, 39-year-old Michael Batsche, had been shot in the head and was rushed to CentraCare-St. Cloud Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Details of the Crime
According to the criminal complaint, Cotto had allegedly engaged in a dispute with Batsche over an unpaid debt prior to the shooting. Surveillance footage from Batsche’s residence captured Cotto and another individual, identified as Paul Erving Coleman, near the garage holding objects shortly before the shooting occurred. Additional camera footage revealed Coleman’s SUV in the alley behind the victim’s home at the time of the incident. Coleman was apprehended in St. Cloud two days later, while Cotto was taken into custody in Chicago.
Legal Proceedings
Initially, Cotto claimed self-defense, but the Alford plea effectively waived this claim. In a separate development, Coleman pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting second-degree murder and is awaiting sentencing.
The resolution of this case serves as a reminder of the impact of violent crimes on individuals and communities. The loss of Michael Batsche has undoubtedly left a void in the lives of his loved ones, and the legal proceedings have brought a measure of closure to a tragic chapter.
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As the legal process unfolds and justice is sought, it is essential to remember the human cost of such actions and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their roles in violent incidents.
For more updates on this case and other developments in the legal system, stay tuned to reliable news sources for the latest information.
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St. Cloud Man Sentenced Murder
St. Cloud Man Sentenced 2022 Murder.
