Wardlow, who is currently serving a 12-year prison term at Lebanon Correctional Institution for attempted murder, two counts of aggravated robbery and having weapons under disability for crimes committed in Hamilton County, is charged with murder, aggravated burglary and aggravated robbery for Denmark’s death.
A not guilty plea was entered on Wardlow’s behalf by the magistrate and a pre-trial hearing was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Aug. 28 before Judge Michael Sage.
The arraignment came a day after the second of three men charged in the murder took a plea deal.
Jayson Brown, 29, of Maple Ave. in Hamilton, entered a guilty plea Tuesday to involuntary manslaughter with a gun specification for his part in Denmark’s murder. Sentencing was set by Butler County Common Pleas Judge Charles Pater for Sept 24. Brown faces six to 14 years in prison.
A third man, Cory White, 23, of Cincinnati, who faced the same charges, also took a deal, pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter with a gun specification. His sentencing is set for Sept. 5 before Butler County Common Pleas Judge Keith Speath.
Butler County Prosecutor Michael Gmoser said he expects Wardlow’s case to go to trial.
“I will not be offering a deal in this case,” Gmoser said.
Denmark’s family attended both court hearings, but declined comment.
Brown’s attorney David Washington said his client had a very minor role in the death of Denmark and is not the shooter.
White’s attorney Lawrence Hawkins III also said his client did not shoot Denmark.
The prosecution has declined to name the actual gunman.
According to Hamilton police, Denmark, a 30-year-old unemployed factory worker, went to investigate a noise his girlfriend heard in his 11th Street home on Dec. 14, 2009, when a gun shot rang out. Police found Denmark’s girlfriend, Rhonda Fleetwood, cradling his body on the stairs when they arrived.
About the Author
