Opening statements today in murder trial

YOUNGSTOWN — Opening statements by prosecuting and defense attorneys in Larese Jones’ trial on murder and aggravated robbery charges will be at 9 a.m. today before Judge R. Scott Krichbaum of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

Jones, 29, of Wampum Drive, who faces up to a life prison sentence, is on trial in the death of Richard Helms, 43, of Himrod Avenue, who prosecutors said was Jones’ accomplice in a Feb. 22 robbery at a Randolph Street home. The resident of that home, David Klamer, 47, told police he shot Helms during the robbery.

Jones was charged with murder because the death occurred “as a proximate result” of the robbery, said City Prosecutor Jay Macejko, who initially handled the case.

Jurors toured the shooting scene Monday afternoon. The case is now being prosecuted by Martin P. Desmond, assistant county prosecutor. Jones is represented by Atty. John Dixon.