HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After District Judge Tim Chambers denied a defense request for dismissal of charges for one of six men charged in an attempted murder case, John Cantu’s lawyer was in court Friday on a couple of different motions of limine.
Defense Attorney Sam Kepfield who represents the 31-year-old asked the judge to not allow the state to present any evidence at trial of his clients past criminal history which is a standard motion. Senior Assistant District Attorney Steve Maxwell told the court they had no plans to present any evidence of prior bad acts at trial.
The other motion concerned statements Cantu reportedly made to his wife over the crimes in question. Kepfield also wanted testimony or mention of a Chrysler Sebring kept out at trial, but Judge Chambers noted that the victims blood was found in the vehicle which he says certainly makes it admissible. As for the statements made by Cantu to his wife, the judge says they can take that up outside the presence of the jury during trial.
The case has to do with six men going to the home of Jeffrey Payne back on February 18, 2013, forced their was into his home and beat, then stabbed him 23-times, almost killing him.
Cantu’s trial is scheduled to begin Tuesday.