AP
May 13, 2008
MIAMI - Prosecutors won't seek the death penalty against four people charged with killing Washington Redskin star Sean Taylor last November, because the accused shooter was a minor at the time.
The Supreme Court has ruled that people cannot be executed for crimes committed under age 18. And it is established legal principle that other suspects in such a case cannot face the death penalty if they were less directly responsible.
Assistant State Attorney Reid Rubin filed notice on Friday to waive the death penalty. The four suspects could each get life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder. Trial is to begin Aug. 25.
Cops say Eric Rivera Jr., who turned 18 last month, shot Taylor, 24, during a botched robbery at the Pro Bowl safety's Miami-area home.
