Crime & Safety
Jurors Reach Guilty Verdict in Iowa City Landlord Slaying Trial
Justin Marshall has been convicted of first-degree murder in 2009 shooting death of an Iowa City landlord. An appeal is expected.
Justin Marshall was convicted on Thursday of first-degree murder in the 2009 death of Iowa City landlord John Versypt.
Versypt, 64, of Cordova, IL, was shot and killed in the Broadway Condiminium complex where he owned units. Authorities say Marshall, 22, shot Versypt in the middle of a botched robbery on Oct. 8, 2009.
The high profile case has been covered by the Iowa City Press-Citizen and the Gazette, among other news outlets.
Find out what's happening in Iowa Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The defense objected to instructions that allowed jurors to convict Marshall of first degree-murder - aiding and abetting. A poll of jurors show a majority did not necessarily find him guilty of the shooting but rather being present when a forcible felony was taking place.
The defense plans to appeal.
Find out what's happening in Iowa Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Sentencing is scheduled for April. First-degree murder is punishable by life in prison.
Read more on the verdict:
The Gazette: Marshall found guilty of first-degree murder
The Press-Citizen: Marshall trial: Verdict is in
Read past coverage of the case from Patch:
Judge Excuses Jurors for Day in Iowa City Landlord Slaying Trial While Defendant Smiles
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