Darel T. King : “Feds Opt Against Death Penalty in Flint Man’s PlayStation Murder”

Federal prosecutors have announced that they will not be seeking the death penalty in the case of a Flint man accused of killing one person and injuring another. The charges against Darel T. King include affecting commerce by robbery and using a firearm during a crime of violence and murder. The decision not to pursue the death penalty was revealed in a federal brief filed by U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison on Thursday, May 16.

Michigan does not have the death penalty at the state level, but it can be applied at the federal level in all 50 states and territories, albeit rarely. The circumstances of the crime are typically a determining factor in whether federal prosecutors seek the death penalty. In this case, the decision lies with the U.S. Attorney General.

The U.S. Department of Justice has specific procedures in place for capital cases where the death penalty may be considered. The local U.S. attorney first reviews the case and submits a recommendation to the Attorney General’s Capital Review Committee. The defense counsel is also given an opportunity to present information that could influence the decision.

King is accused of shooting and killing Daushawn Guthridge on July 10, 2019. Police responded to a homicide at a home on Kent Street in Flint and found Guthridge dead from multiple gunshot wounds. A woman and a 9-year-old boy were also present, with the woman sustaining gunshot wounds to the foot and buttocks but surviving.

The incident unfolded while Guthridge was playing a live video game online, and audio recordings captured the crime. One of the gamers playing with Guthridge sent the video to authorities, leading to the arrest of the suspects. The tipster stated, “I have a short clip that proves that I just want justice to be served…His gamer tag is shawn4uall…We heard all the arguments, and further gun shots. I hope this video helps.”

Further evidence from jailhouse informants and online gamers confirmed King’s involvement in the crime, providing crucial information to the authorities. The decision not to pursue the death penalty in this case highlights the complexities of seeking capital punishment in federal cases.