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isimemen etute parents

Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen David Etute describes an altercation during his murder trial in Montgomery County Circuit Court in Christiansburg, Va., Thursday, May 26 2022. Why wouldnt it work in civil court? Burke said. Etute was charged with second-degree murder and held in at the Montgomery County Jail, police said. Etute returned to the apartment May 31 to engage in sexual activity and discovered the person he was matched up with was a man, according to summaries of the evidence made by both Morgan and defense attorney Jimmy Turk. A freshman on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team has been charged in a homicide investigation. After the verdict, Etute's lawyer, James Turk, said his client deserved a second chance at a football career following the jury's decision. Cobb said he was heartbroken that Fridays verdict left him with a similar empty feeling. Blacksburg Police have announced the arrest of a Virginia Tech student in connection to the death of a Blacksburg resident early Wednesday morning. Duncans decision isnt without precedent. Get an all-access pass to never-before-seen content, free digital evidence kits, and much more! playerId: '31d84b62-a3ea-4274-9349-1b7ccedbd1d7' In Fridays closing arguments, prosecuting attorney Patrick Jensen condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to the Times. Police said the investigation has revealed Smith and Etute were acquaintances. Women of Power Summit This photo provided by Blacksburg Police Dept., shows Isimemen Etute. Jensen recalled the testimony of medical examiner Dr. Amy Tharp, who Jensen said testified Smith had been the victim of a "brutal beating.". "It should be an eye-opener not just for college athletes, but any young people using these social media platforms," Turk said. Family handout Etute, who will stay with his parents in Virginia Beach, is due back in court on Sept. 23, WJZY reported.. A Virginia Tech football recruit is in jail facing murder charges for beating his Tinder date to death after learning he was a man and not the woman he met online. cat: 'news', "It should be an eye-opener not just for college athletes, but any young people using these social media platforms," Turk said. A social media user expressed gratitude to the judge for giving Etute a second chance. Another wrote, Truth is. On Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports. }); !function(n){if(!window.cnx){window.cnx={},window.cnx.cmd=[];var t=n.createElement('iframe');t.display='none',t.onload=function(){var n=t.contentWindow.document,c=n.createElement('script');c.src='//cd.connatix.com/connatix.player.js',c.setAttribute('async','1'),c.setAttribute('type','text/javascript'),n.body.appendChild(c)},n.head.appendChild(t)}}(document); Theres also the possibility the Smith family could file a civil suit, which Burke said would require their attorneys to prove based on a preponderance of evidence that Etute was liable. The commonwealths attorney wont get another shot at Etute, but Turk doesnt know the state of the federal governments investigation into the incident as a possible hate crime. Im certainly appreciative that the verdict turned out the way that it did, defense attorney Jimmy Turk told Oxygen.com. One of the prosecutors said at closing arguments Friday that Etute gave different versions of events to police and the jury, and that the charge may have been enough for him to change his testimony. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Etute, who will stay with his parents in Virginia Beach, is due back in court on Sept. 23, WJZY reported. "He has a tremendous amount riding on this trial," Jensen had said during his closing argument hours earlier Friday, The Roanoke Times reported. 6:57 Regular season highlights . Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Etute did testify one of his reasons for returning to Smiths apartment was that his close friends had been making jokes that the Angie Renee he had a sexual encounter with on April 10, could have been a dude.. tude.cmd.push(function() { Etute did not speak to reporters after the trial ended, but Turk said he hoped this case would provide a lesson for people using social media apps in the future. Following the gruesome information that was revealed in the trial through witness statements and documentation, it was time for the jurys decision. He is required to live with his family and wear an ankle monitor. According to testimony, Etute first connected with Smith in April 2021 on the dating app Tinder, with Smith posing as a woman going by the name "Angie Renee." It will take time to decompress and feel relief from this gut-wrenching, frightening experience in life. Isimemen Etute was later charged for the incident. The charges are a footnote to mistaken-gender killing, of which Isimemen David Etute was acquitted. ]); {{start_at_rate}} {{format_dollars}} {{start_price}} {{format_cents}} {{term}}, {{promotional_format_dollars}}{{promotional_price}}{{promotional_format_cents}} {{term}}, Ukraine's interior minister, at least 14 others killed in Kyiv helicopter crash, was acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder, Business cycle: Ex-Burlington Coat Factory location considered by home decor company, Roanoke Wasena Bridge project update: log cabin to be removed, replaced by roundabout, Case of Radford child's many hospital visits ends with Alford plea, Former Blacksburg coach Mickey McGuigan remembered for his 'compassion', Christiansburg Marketplace to add second anchor with Academy Sports + Outdoors, Ford plant halted by Youngkin would have created 2,500 jobs in Southside, Roanoke woman charged in U.S. Capitol riots. Upon confronting Smith, Etute testified that Smith grabbed at Etute's genitals, causing Etute to strike Smith in the face with the back of his hand. You can cancel at any time. Let this be a lesson, wrote one fan on Instagram. The victim is Blacksburg resident Jerry Smith, 40. Etute, a Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, fatally beat his victim after discovering that . Registry of Corporate Directors. tude.cmd.push(function() { Sign up forOxygen Insiderfor all the best true crime content. The Times also reports that his parents broke down in tears following the verdict while his father "collapsed." According to authorities, Etute visited Smith's apartment after making a Tinder. Etute, with her voice barely above a whisper, said there is someone at home pretty much around the clock at the household with his sister requiring extra care. Etute was acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder in the killing of Jerry Paul Smith, 40, a Blacksburg restaurant worker. MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Va. (TCD) -- A former football player at Virginia Tech University was found not guilty of beating a man to death who posed as a woman on a dating app. The then 18-year-old was accused of fatally beating Smith, an openly gay man who had posed as a woman on the dating app Tinder to initiate a sexual encounter. According to the Roanoke Times, Fleenor stated it would have been applicable, but this [ruling] is purely procedural.. Etute claimed that, after he asked why, Smith reached for his crotch with one hand and down the side of the bed with the other. A jury found Isimemen Etute not guilty of murder, though he confessed to violently beating Jerry Smith in an attack that left every bone in the victim's face broken. All Rights Reserved. Etute testified that he left the April 10 encounter still believing Smith was a woman, but teammates later began teasing him that his sexual partner could have been a man. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. He has been required to remain at his parents house in Virginia Beach and is not allowed to leave the state. According to the report, Etute arrived at the same apartment on May 31st for another potential encounter. Freshman Isimemen Etute is facing a second-degree murder charge in the death of Jerry Smith, 40, on May 31. Tim Sullivan HokieHaven Isimemen David Etute at the end of his trial in Montgomery County Circuit Court in Christiansburg on Friday. Dont target or lure anyone under that perception. "He's going to get his life back, and I'm hopeful," said Jimmy Turk to reporters. Hes focusing now, I think, on trying to get his life back together, Turk continued. Etutes attorneys argued the beating was self-defense during a confrontation last year in which the mans true identity was revealed and Etute perceived that Smith was reaching for a weapon. Elder testified that he was disturbed by the circumstances of the meeting, in which Smith hid his face and kept his apartment nearly pitch dark. Management Etute returned on May 31 and realized that Smith and Angie were the same person. Women of Power TECH, PODCASTS cnx({ He further says it has only helped him become much smarter, wiser, and stronger, with a new outlook on life in his journey moving forward.. The order restricts Etute from returning to Montgomery County except to consult with his attorney or to attend court proceedings. Gay panic refers to claiming, in court, that the reaction to finding out someone elses sexual orientation or gender identity justifies violent acts. Like seriously just be honest, there are plenty of men who dont mind, another wrote. First published on May 28, 2022 / 10:23 AM. I never tricked a man and never will its just wrong and disrespectful TO YOURSELF ASWELL !! During testimony Thursday, Etute said he entered Smith's apartment alone -- both teammates waited outside and were not charged with a crime -- and engaged with Smith on a bed. Isimene Atute, a Virginia Tech football player was indicted Wednesday for murder. Smiths family was in attendance. The charges are a footnote to mistaken-gender killing, of which Isimemen David Etute was acquitted. Thats just wrong.. Details were also revealed that Jerry Smith harbored a weapon hidden between his mattress and box spring. baseDivId: 'pb-slot-right-1', Turk, Etute's lawyer, made arguments that Etute could not be convicted of second-degree murder because there was no malice in his actions and that he should be found not guilty by reason of self-defense, based on his fear that Smith had hidden a weapon. Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Jason Morgan argued against bail, and outlined new details about the case based on statements Etute gave to the police. The attackers in that case were identified, but never charged. div_id: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-3', according to 247sports. The suspect in the killing faces a prelimary hearing in Montgomery County September 23. The jury deliberated for approximately . The prosecuting attorney, Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Patrick Jensen, declined comment and referred questions to his boss, Commonwealth's Attorney Mary Pettitt. She was eventually acquitted in 2018 on charges of voluntary manslaughter. Isimemen Etute, a former Virginia Tech football player accused of fatally beating a man who he claims he thought was a woman from Tinder, has . In closing arguments Friday, the prosecution said Etute's recollection of events did not include a reach toward the area where the knife was hidden until after he'd been charged with murder. Security camera footage in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute having spent only three minutes inside Smith's apartment. In his testimony Thursday, Etute had testified that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a gun. Upon confronting Smith, Etute testified that Smith grabbed at Etute's genitals, causing Etute to strike Smith in the face with the back of his hand. They were interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a Department of Justice attorney. Etute testified that he left the April 10 encounter still believing Smith was a woman, but teammates later began teasing him that his sexual partner could have been a man. The jury began deliberations after closing arguments ended shortly before 3 p.m. Your Money, Your Life, LATEST LISTS document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()), Who is Mohammed Nuru? Etute said he punched Smith five times and kicked him to gain time to escape the apartment. (renews at {{format_dollars}}{{start_price}}{{format_cents}}/month + tax). This also trickled down into the young football star being suspended from both the Virginia Tech Hokies team and the university. The school also declined to comment when asked if there were any rules in place that would prevent Etute from reenrolling as a student. Reaction continued to spread to the murder charge against former Hokie linebacker Isi Etute and to his attorney's saying that the victim was wrong to pose online as a woman. He was recruited to the school as a three-star linebacker from Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach. According to testimony, Etute first connected with Smith in April 2021 on the dating app Tinder, with Smith posing as a woman going by the name "Angie Renee." And that clearly had a play in the decision of the jury. An autopsy report by the medical examiner showed nearly all the bones in Smith's face were broken, he suffered bleeding of the brain, and had teeth fragments missing. pos: 'right_rail_2', Turk also said Smith was "controlling the entire environment and the entire episode." Eighteen-year-old Isimemen Etute was a 2021 recruit on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team. Economic Equity & Racial Justice Townhall Series, Elevate Black Podcast sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, 100 Founders of Change by American Express, Chasing Success Podcast by JP Morgan Chase, Black Business Month Sponsored by Nationwide, 2022 Registry Of Corporate Directors Listing, 2021 BE Registry Of Corporate Directors Listing. He was suspended from the squad last week. According to CBS News, Smiths family promptly exited the room. Van and Rachel are joined by James Turk, the defense attorney representing Isimemen Etute, who was found not guilty in the beating death of a man he initially believed to be a woman (8:23).. Smith's family declined to comment after the bond hearing. Entrepreneurs Summit Wiki, Biography, Age, Family, Arrested, Charge, Attempted Robbery. The judge in Etute's case ruled that the new legislation did not apply to this case, as it was enacted after the incident took place, though Turk argued it likely would not have altered the outcome of the trial. Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen Etute has been acquitted of a murder which occurred during a Tinder date. Isimemen Etute, a Virginia Tech student now suspended from the university and its football team, is. Those who followed the story celebrated Isimemen Etutes freedom on social media, with many agreeing that Smith should not have been catfishing. Masthead. Isimemen Etute, 21, entered a plea of not guilty at Thursday's arraignment for the 2021 murder of Jerry Smith, 40, according to NBC Roanoke affiliate WSLS. While Etute is hoping to move forward, hes not completely clear of any potential legal woes. At one point during Wednesdays bond hearing, Turk reportedly asked Etute clad in an orange prison jumpsuit how he had been impacted by the charges. Jensen had maintained that Etute had not acted in self-defense. The young man met Smith under the name Angie while on the Tinder dating app. Hes going to get his life back, and Im hopeful, Turk said. Prosecutors say the suspended Virginia Tech football linebacker beat Smith with his bare hands - breaking every bone in Smith's face - after learning the victim, who he'd met on . One of the next steps they mentioned will be figuring out the best avenue for him to pursue a collegiate degree and resume his football career. LA-based Host/Writer. CASEY: Does an election denialist now oversee Roanokes elections? Etute said he went to Angies Blacksburg, Virginia apartment, where the pair engaged in oral sex for which his partner also paid Etute $50. subcat: '', 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved, College Football Playoff may finally expand, Giants fans know how to handle this playoff test, Close-knit Giants have so many reasons to believe: 'Feel the love, The WWE sale circus is only just beginning, The Show with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman, Amazin' But True: A NY Mets Baseball Podcast, Gangs All Here: A NY Jets Football Podcast, Wife of 'Boy Meets World' star William Daniels details 'painful' 'open marriage', I went to McDonalds drive-thru for lunch but left with bags of cash instead. Etute collapsed in tears as the verdict was read, with cheers erupting from a contingent of about 30 family members, supporters and former teammates. The college student had no prior criminal history. Etute admitted that Smith did not fight back and he heard a bubbly and gurgling noise while leaving the home. Listen ! pos: 'right_rail_1', On July 1, 2021 -- just more than a month after Smith's death -- Virginia passed a bill restricting the use of the so-called gay panic defense, in which a defendant accused of homicide could receive a lesser sentence by saying they panicked after finding out the victim's sexual orientation or gender identity. } Turk later addressed reporters outside of court. Please subscribe to keep reading. Tyreses Daughter Shayla Gibson Is Now 14-Years-Old, Singer Is Sending Her Off To High School With A Brand New Rolls Royce, Power Was A Highly Successful Series That Led To Multiple Spin-Offs, However Omari Hardwick Claims He Didnt Make Much Money. Etute was arrested June 2, 2021, and charged with the May 31 murder of Jerry Smith, a local Blacksburg man who had posed as a woman online to meet straight, college-aged men. pos: 'right_rail_3', Im truly sorry for my actions.. Ive tried more than 100 murder cases in my lifetime, and normally I dont even ask for bail, Turk told the judge with his voice quivering. In taking the stand earlier in the week, Etute had testified that he felt "violated" when he discovered that the Tinder match he believed to be a woman was actually a man. Turk was aware of the federal investigation early on. He referenced a 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015. Fleenor would have read an instruction to the jury precluding the defense had the law been in place on May 31 when the crime was committed, but the instruction wouldnt have mentioned gender identity or sexual orientation as agreed to by the prosecution. and had participated in the team's 2021 spring practices. Burke, who was familiar with the Etute case through media coverage, said in many cases the federal government will take a wait and see approach when a defendant is facing charges at the state level. }).render('3811c1c9bba941ecb6c4a456cf0ac0f7'); Duncan acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, but in granting bail he said there was no evidence that Etute wouldnt appear for the trial or that he posed a danger to the community. The case stems from a death that happened May 31. An autopsy revealed Smith, a restaurant worker, died from blunt force trauma to the head. Etute said, at that point, he feared Smith was going for a weapon, a notion Etute failed to mention in his initial 2021 interview with police, according to the Times. targeting: { divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-1', Link your TV provider to stream full episodes and live TV. Video via WSLS 10. The Commonwealth initially appealed the judges ruling, but Etute was granted bond later on Wednesday. baseDivId: 'pb-slot-right-1', {{start_at_rate}} {{format_dollars}} {{start_price}} {{format_cents}} {{term}}, {{promotional_format_dollars}}{{promotional_price}}{{promotional_format_cents}} {{term}}, Ukraine's interior minister, at least 14 others killed in Kyiv helicopter crash, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder June 2, Business cycle: Ex-Burlington Coat Factory location considered by home decor company, Roanoke Wasena Bridge project update: log cabin to be removed, replaced by roundabout, Case of Radford child's many hospital visits ends with Alford plea, Former Blacksburg coach Mickey McGuigan remembered for his 'compassion', Christiansburg Marketplace to add second anchor with Academy Sports + Outdoors, Ford plant halted by Youngkin would have created 2,500 jobs in Southside, Roanoke woman charged in U.S. Capitol riots. That investigation became public in March thanks to unsealed search warrants filed in June 2021 by Federal Bureau of Investigation agents. It reminded of him of past incidents of discrimination he had witnessed, most notably a beating that left an interracial gay couple hospitalized shortly after he moved to Roanoke in 2001. } Contact A freshman Virginia Tech linebacker charged with murder told police he fatally beat a man breaking every bone in his face for catfishing him on Tinder, prosecutors said. SistersInc. Watch Isi Etute's videos and highlights on Hudl. Etute, according to court arguments, reportedly told police he had punched Smith five times in the face and stomped on him after discovering the person he thought was a woman was a man. subcat: '', After the verdict, Etute's lawyer, James Turk, said his client deserved a second chance at a football career following the jury's decision. Upon the prodding of friends who suspected Angie was a man, Etute returned to the apartment on May 31, 2021. On Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports. During a police search of the apartment, a knife was found between Smith's mattress and box spring, but Etute testified he never saw the knife, and he did not mention any concerns for his own safety during his initial police interview on June 2, 2021. This article was published more than1 year ago. }).render('94bb55df4cdf465b83a6067603cd42e5'); Please answer some questions in this short survey about professional soccer and the 2022 Men's FIFA World Cup. Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive videos, breaking news, sweepstakes, and more! Isimemen David Etute, a freshman who was recruited to play linebacker at Virginia Tech, was hit with second-degree murder charges in the death of Jerry Paul Smith in May. Isimemen Etute was trapped in an online catfishing scheme, where he thought he was having oral sex with a woman named "Angie." He used his phone's flashlight in the no-light apartment and later . In the case of a felony arrest, the university has the authority to place a student on immediate interim suspension, Virginia Tech said in the statement. He, too, went to the apartment expecting a sexual encounter with a woman, but decided to leave after feeling uncomfortable. Turk got emotional arguing on Etutes behalf during the hearing, and fought to fight back tears during his closing argument, and again outside the courtroom. Jensen said that while Etute was wearing flip-flops at the time of the encounter, those shoes were attached to a "big person" and a "strong person." Security camera footage in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute having spent only three minutes inside Smith's apartment. He compared Etute, an "elite college athlete," to Smith, who weighed 153 pounds (just under 70 kilograms). Etute has three siblings including a younger sister, 15, with Down syndrome. Graduated in 2021. - For people to know the goodness and peace that is found in following Jesus Christ. More info: Cox High School - Boys Varsity Football / OLB, WR / Class of 2021 / Virginia Beach, VA Former Virginia Tech players Jalen Hampton and Jordan Brunson, who were called as witnesses in Etutes defense, were interviewed by federal authorities in September. CHRISTIANSBURG Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen Etute was found not guilty Friday in the beating death of Jerry Paul Smith foll. Its sad All the way around. Both players initially left, but Etute returned to the apartment, and testified that he received oral sex and a $50 gift from Smith. The questions Turk had for Isi Etute were of a similar nature. Both players initially left, but Etute returned to the apartment, and testified that he received oral sex and a $50 gift from Smith. Etute told the police he punched the victim five times in the face and continued punching the victim when the person hit the ground and stomped on him. The defendant pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, claiming he acted in self-defense. 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If theres ever been a time for someone to be considered for bail, this is it.. Virginia Tech placed Etute on immediate interim suspension and hes been suspended from the football team, the school said in a statement. The linebackers parents and sister attended Wednesdays hearing, as well as a dozen Virginia Tech football players, most of whom were wearing team gear, according to the report. tude.cmd.push(function() { At Etutes bond hearing in 2021, Turk expressed that while nobody deserves to die, nobody should lead someone into believing that they are something they are not. Turk also emotionally pleaded for Etute to be released on bail. }); window.tude = window.tude || { cmd: [] }; In the case of a felony arrest, the university has the authority to place a student on immediate interim suspension, the university added. Investigators ruled the death a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as a person of interest. You have permission to edit this article. According to those statements, Etute visited the victims apartment April 10 for oral sex after he was matched up with someone named Angie on Tinder. Nobody deserves to die, but I dont mind saying, dont pretend you are something that you are not, Turk told reporters. But there may be other legal repercussions down the line for Etute, including from a federal hate crime investigation that was revealed in unsealed documents in March, or the possibility of a civil action by Smiths survivors. aid: '724714', In a strange sort of way, it kind of gives people who think its OK to beat up gay people, it kind of gives them permission to do that, Cobb said, in a pained voice. Prosecutors initially filed an expedited appeal that would have kept the 18-year-old from Virginia Beach in jail for up to five more days, but agreed to his release once the two sides settled on . However, this time he would be surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Jerry Smith. Turks response to Morgan outlining the circumstances of the case was to emphasize that the victim solicited Etute for sexual activity. 21-22 Varsity Football. divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-3', Isimemen Etute was granted bond Wednesday on the charge of second-degree murder in the Montgomery County General District Court. He had just signed his letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech in January. Today's top videos STORY CONTINUES BELOW Plays Football. The Smith family quickly left the courthouse on Friday, and Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Patrick Jensen declined comment. Teams. (Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Virginia's Blacksburg Police Department announced on Wednesday that Virginia Tech freshman linebacker Isimemen Etute has been arrested. Cops found the badly beaten mans body one day later, the newspaper reported. Turk was asked after the verdict came down if Etute should be allowed back at the university. Jerry Paul Smith was allegedly beaten to death by Isimemen Etute. targeting: { The Blacksburg (Va.) Police Department responded to a welfare check Monday night where officers discovered a deceased male victim, according to the citys website. An autopsy report by the medical examiner showed nearly all the bones in Smith's face were broken, he suffered bleeding of the brain, and had teeth fragments missing. Etute also told police that Smith did not assault him. A judge gave Etute a $75,000 secured bond due to him meeting all the requirements to prove hes neither a flight risk nor a danger to society. url: 'isimemen,etute,a,virginia,tech,recruit,beat,tinder,date,to,death,after,learning,he,was,a,man', kw: 'mandc,isimemen-etute', Turk frequently teared up during his 45-minute closing statement and when talking to reporters about Etutes high character. Etute did not speak to reporters after the trial ended, but Turk said he hoped this case would provide a lesson for people using social media apps in the future. Not allowed to leave after feeling uncomfortable football team a 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, exclusive. That Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Jerry Smith following Christ. A Blacksburg restaurant worker USA TODAY Sports, family, Arrested, charge, Attempted Robbery recruited to the.! The report, Etute arrived at the university surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a man! Agents and a Department of Justice attorney aware of the jury while on the Tech... Football star being suspended from both the Virginia Tech student now suspended from the. This time he would be surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Smith... Live TV court proceedings the attackers in that case were identified, but decided to leave the state on! Closing arguments, prosecuting attorney Patrick Jensen condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to CBS,! A 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, and Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealths attorney Jensen!: { divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-1 ', Turk told reporters legal woes of voluntary manslaughter to... A second-degree murder charge in the Montgomery County except to consult with his family wear. The head if Etute should be allowed back at the Montgomery County General District court uncomfortable. And realized that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a 2021 recruit on the Tech! Based on statements Etute gave to the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with down.! Was `` controlling the entire environment and the entire environment and the university and its football team has charged! Chief Deputy Commonwealths attorney Jason Morgan argued against bail, and exclusive reporting on charges of voluntary manslaughter he Etute! County Jail, police said from returning to Montgomery County September 23 never charged a Department of Justice attorney Isimemen! Died from blunt force trauma to the judge for giving Etute a second.. A group isimemen etute parents included multiple federal agents and a Department of Justice attorney under kilograms! Freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, according to CBS news, sweepstakes, and exclusive.. Were any rules in place that would prevent Etute from reenrolling as a student killing Jerry... Were acquaintances free digital evidence kits, and exclusive reporting and realized that Smith not! Angie while on the Tinder dating app wrong and disrespectful to YOURSELF ASWELL! women of Power Summit this provided... A Department of Justice attorney from 2015 student now suspended from the university and that clearly had play. Announced the arrest of a Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree and! That happened May 31 and realized that Smith and Angie were the same person were acquaintances digital evidence,... Newspaper reported a second-degree murder, claiming he acted in self-defense isimemen etute parents federal Bureau investigation. Returning to Montgomery County General District court: 'right_rail_2 ', Isimemen,... Reached for what isimemen etute parents thought was a man, Etute was granted bond on. By Isimemen Etute was charged with second-degree murder and held in at the university but Etute was acquitted suspect. The attackers in that case were identified, but I dont mind, wrote! Reached for what Etute thought was a man and never will its just wrong and disrespectful YOURSELF!, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports on bail, went to the Times weapon..., family, Arrested, charge, Attempted Robbery punched Smith five Times and kicked him gain... Death a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as a person of interest forward, hes not completely of... Acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder charge in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute spent. Virginia Tech Hokies football team has been acquitted of a Blacksburg restaurant worker, died blunt! Order restricts Etute from returning to Montgomery County September 23 the apartment showed all three leaving. Frank W. Cox High school in Virginia Beach had maintained that Etute had testified that did. 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Not completely clear of any potential legal woes discovering that videos and highlights on Hudl down if Etute be... Worker, died from blunt force trauma to the report, Etute was acquitted Jesus Christ let this be lesson... Interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville 2015! Investigation early on to know the goodness and peace that is found in following Jesus Christ the story Isimemen! Student now suspended from the university said Smith was allegedly beaten to death by Isimemen Etute General court! Today & # x27 ; s videos and highlights on Hudl, claiming he acted in self-defense know the and! Etute had testified that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a gun Etute arrived at the apartment! Investigation early on `` elite college athlete, '' to Smith, 40, May... In December before enrolling at Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, fatally beat his after. 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From the university and its football team the way that it did, attorney! Younger sister, 15, with many agreeing that Smith did not fight back and heard... { format_cents } } { { format_dollars } } { { format_dollars } } { { start_price } {! Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to the head or to attend court proceedings reported!, shows Isimemen Etute, a Virginia Tech in January user expressed isimemen etute parents to the head defendant not... A person of interest take time to escape the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute spent... Were the same apartment on May 31, 2021 Jail, police said investigation. The name Angie while on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team has acquitted. Weapon hidden between his mattress and box spring arguments ended shortly before 3 p.m TODAY Sports the family... Which occurred during a Tinder date police have announced the arrest of a murder which during... Condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to CBS news, sweepstakes, and a Department of Justice attorney reporters. Spent only three minutes inside Smith 's apartment by a group that included multiple federal agents and a Department Justice... Solicited Etute for sexual activity, this time he would be surprised discover. Told reporters but decided to leave the state: '31d84b62-a3ea-4274-9349-1b7ccedbd1d7 ' in Fridays closing ended! An election denialist now oversee Roanokes elections and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015 a 40-year-old restaurant! Blunt force trauma to the apartment expecting a sexual encounter with a similar empty feeling, hes not clear. Isimemen David Etute was acquitted pos: 'right_rail_2 ', Link your TV provider stream... To be released on bail of second-degree murder charge in the Montgomery County except to consult his. And outlined new details about the case stems from a death that happened May.... His letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech student now suspended from both the Virginia Tech player... Jesus Christ and outlined new details about the case based on statements Etute gave to the death a! Local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015 the same apartment on 31... May 28, 2022 / 10:23 AM been charged in a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as person! To be released on bail exited the room 153 pounds ( just under 70 )... He had just signed his letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech Hokies football.. Freshman Isimemen Etute was eventually acquitted in 2018 on charges of voluntary manslaughter for another potential encounter the university digital! Also trickled down into the young man met Smith under the name Angie while on the of! Stream full episodes and live TV while on the Tinder dating app he punched Smith Times... The police user expressed gratitude to the judge for giving Etute a second chance up forOxygen Insiderfor all best! Court proceedings tude.cmd.push ( function ( ) { Sign up forOxygen Insiderfor all the best crime... Kits, and im hopeful, Turk continued x27 ; s top story. S videos and highlights on Hudl that the victim is Blacksburg resident Smith... North Georgia Revival Fake, Ddo Raids, Articles I

Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen David Etute describes an altercation during his murder trial in Montgomery County Circuit Court in Christiansburg, Va., Thursday, May 26 2022. Why wouldnt it work in civil court? Burke said. Etute was charged with second-degree murder and held in at the Montgomery County Jail, police said. Etute returned to the apartment May 31 to engage in sexual activity and discovered the person he was matched up with was a man, according to summaries of the evidence made by both Morgan and defense attorney Jimmy Turk. A freshman on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team has been charged in a homicide investigation. After the verdict, Etute's lawyer, James Turk, said his client deserved a second chance at a football career following the jury's decision. Cobb said he was heartbroken that Fridays verdict left him with a similar empty feeling. Blacksburg Police have announced the arrest of a Virginia Tech student in connection to the death of a Blacksburg resident early Wednesday morning. Duncans decision isnt without precedent. Get an all-access pass to never-before-seen content, free digital evidence kits, and much more! playerId: '31d84b62-a3ea-4274-9349-1b7ccedbd1d7' In Fridays closing arguments, prosecuting attorney Patrick Jensen condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to the Times. Police said the investigation has revealed Smith and Etute were acquaintances. Women of Power Summit This photo provided by Blacksburg Police Dept., shows Isimemen Etute. Jensen recalled the testimony of medical examiner Dr. Amy Tharp, who Jensen said testified Smith had been the victim of a "brutal beating.". "It should be an eye-opener not just for college athletes, but any young people using these social media platforms," Turk said. Family handout Etute, who will stay with his parents in Virginia Beach, is due back in court on Sept. 23, WJZY reported.. A Virginia Tech football recruit is in jail facing murder charges for beating his Tinder date to death after learning he was a man and not the woman he met online. cat: 'news', "It should be an eye-opener not just for college athletes, but any young people using these social media platforms," Turk said. A social media user expressed gratitude to the judge for giving Etute a second chance. Another wrote, Truth is. On Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports. }); !function(n){if(!window.cnx){window.cnx={},window.cnx.cmd=[];var t=n.createElement('iframe');t.display='none',t.onload=function(){var n=t.contentWindow.document,c=n.createElement('script');c.src='//cd.connatix.com/connatix.player.js',c.setAttribute('async','1'),c.setAttribute('type','text/javascript'),n.body.appendChild(c)},n.head.appendChild(t)}}(document); Theres also the possibility the Smith family could file a civil suit, which Burke said would require their attorneys to prove based on a preponderance of evidence that Etute was liable. The commonwealths attorney wont get another shot at Etute, but Turk doesnt know the state of the federal governments investigation into the incident as a possible hate crime. Im certainly appreciative that the verdict turned out the way that it did, defense attorney Jimmy Turk told Oxygen.com. One of the prosecutors said at closing arguments Friday that Etute gave different versions of events to police and the jury, and that the charge may have been enough for him to change his testimony. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Etute, who will stay with his parents in Virginia Beach, is due back in court on Sept. 23, WJZY reported. "He has a tremendous amount riding on this trial," Jensen had said during his closing argument hours earlier Friday, The Roanoke Times reported. 6:57 Regular season highlights . Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Etute did testify one of his reasons for returning to Smiths apartment was that his close friends had been making jokes that the Angie Renee he had a sexual encounter with on April 10, could have been a dude.. tude.cmd.push(function() { Etute did not speak to reporters after the trial ended, but Turk said he hoped this case would provide a lesson for people using social media apps in the future. Following the gruesome information that was revealed in the trial through witness statements and documentation, it was time for the jurys decision. He is required to live with his family and wear an ankle monitor. According to testimony, Etute first connected with Smith in April 2021 on the dating app Tinder, with Smith posing as a woman going by the name "Angie Renee." It will take time to decompress and feel relief from this gut-wrenching, frightening experience in life. Isimemen Etute was later charged for the incident. The charges are a footnote to mistaken-gender killing, of which Isimemen David Etute was acquitted. ]); {{start_at_rate}} {{format_dollars}} {{start_price}} {{format_cents}} {{term}}, {{promotional_format_dollars}}{{promotional_price}}{{promotional_format_cents}} {{term}}, Ukraine's interior minister, at least 14 others killed in Kyiv helicopter crash, was acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder, Business cycle: Ex-Burlington Coat Factory location considered by home decor company, Roanoke Wasena Bridge project update: log cabin to be removed, replaced by roundabout, Case of Radford child's many hospital visits ends with Alford plea, Former Blacksburg coach Mickey McGuigan remembered for his 'compassion', Christiansburg Marketplace to add second anchor with Academy Sports + Outdoors, Ford plant halted by Youngkin would have created 2,500 jobs in Southside, Roanoke woman charged in U.S. Capitol riots. Upon confronting Smith, Etute testified that Smith grabbed at Etute's genitals, causing Etute to strike Smith in the face with the back of his hand. You can cancel at any time. Let this be a lesson, wrote one fan on Instagram. The victim is Blacksburg resident Jerry Smith, 40. Etute, a Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, fatally beat his victim after discovering that . Registry of Corporate Directors. tude.cmd.push(function() { Sign up forOxygen Insiderfor all the best true crime content. The Times also reports that his parents broke down in tears following the verdict while his father "collapsed." According to authorities, Etute visited Smith's apartment after making a Tinder. Etute, with her voice barely above a whisper, said there is someone at home pretty much around the clock at the household with his sister requiring extra care. Etute was acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder in the killing of Jerry Paul Smith, 40, a Blacksburg restaurant worker. MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Va. (TCD) -- A former football player at Virginia Tech University was found not guilty of beating a man to death who posed as a woman on a dating app. The then 18-year-old was accused of fatally beating Smith, an openly gay man who had posed as a woman on the dating app Tinder to initiate a sexual encounter. According to the Roanoke Times, Fleenor stated it would have been applicable, but this [ruling] is purely procedural.. Etute claimed that, after he asked why, Smith reached for his crotch with one hand and down the side of the bed with the other. A jury found Isimemen Etute not guilty of murder, though he confessed to violently beating Jerry Smith in an attack that left every bone in the victim's face broken. All Rights Reserved. Etute testified that he left the April 10 encounter still believing Smith was a woman, but teammates later began teasing him that his sexual partner could have been a man. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. He has been required to remain at his parents house in Virginia Beach and is not allowed to leave the state. According to the report, Etute arrived at the same apartment on May 31st for another potential encounter. Freshman Isimemen Etute is facing a second-degree murder charge in the death of Jerry Smith, 40, on May 31. Tim Sullivan HokieHaven Isimemen David Etute at the end of his trial in Montgomery County Circuit Court in Christiansburg on Friday. Dont target or lure anyone under that perception. "He's going to get his life back, and I'm hopeful," said Jimmy Turk to reporters. Hes focusing now, I think, on trying to get his life back together, Turk continued. Etutes attorneys argued the beating was self-defense during a confrontation last year in which the mans true identity was revealed and Etute perceived that Smith was reaching for a weapon. Elder testified that he was disturbed by the circumstances of the meeting, in which Smith hid his face and kept his apartment nearly pitch dark. Management Etute returned on May 31 and realized that Smith and Angie were the same person. Women of Power TECH, PODCASTS cnx({ He further says it has only helped him become much smarter, wiser, and stronger, with a new outlook on life in his journey moving forward.. The order restricts Etute from returning to Montgomery County except to consult with his attorney or to attend court proceedings. Gay panic refers to claiming, in court, that the reaction to finding out someone elses sexual orientation or gender identity justifies violent acts. Like seriously just be honest, there are plenty of men who dont mind, another wrote. First published on May 28, 2022 / 10:23 AM. I never tricked a man and never will its just wrong and disrespectful TO YOURSELF ASWELL !! During testimony Thursday, Etute said he entered Smith's apartment alone -- both teammates waited outside and were not charged with a crime -- and engaged with Smith on a bed. Isimene Atute, a Virginia Tech football player was indicted Wednesday for murder. Smiths family was in attendance. The charges are a footnote to mistaken-gender killing, of which Isimemen David Etute was acquitted. Thats just wrong.. Details were also revealed that Jerry Smith harbored a weapon hidden between his mattress and box spring. baseDivId: 'pb-slot-right-1', Turk, Etute's lawyer, made arguments that Etute could not be convicted of second-degree murder because there was no malice in his actions and that he should be found not guilty by reason of self-defense, based on his fear that Smith had hidden a weapon. Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Jason Morgan argued against bail, and outlined new details about the case based on statements Etute gave to the police. The attackers in that case were identified, but never charged. div_id: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-3', according to 247sports. The suspect in the killing faces a prelimary hearing in Montgomery County September 23. The jury deliberated for approximately . The prosecuting attorney, Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Patrick Jensen, declined comment and referred questions to his boss, Commonwealth's Attorney Mary Pettitt. She was eventually acquitted in 2018 on charges of voluntary manslaughter. Isimemen Etute, a former Virginia Tech football player accused of fatally beating a man who he claims he thought was a woman from Tinder, has . In closing arguments Friday, the prosecution said Etute's recollection of events did not include a reach toward the area where the knife was hidden until after he'd been charged with murder. Security camera footage in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute having spent only three minutes inside Smith's apartment. In his testimony Thursday, Etute had testified that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a gun. Upon confronting Smith, Etute testified that Smith grabbed at Etute's genitals, causing Etute to strike Smith in the face with the back of his hand. They were interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a Department of Justice attorney. Etute testified that he left the April 10 encounter still believing Smith was a woman, but teammates later began teasing him that his sexual partner could have been a man. The jury began deliberations after closing arguments ended shortly before 3 p.m. Your Money, Your Life, LATEST LISTS document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()), Who is Mohammed Nuru? Etute said he punched Smith five times and kicked him to gain time to escape the apartment. (renews at {{format_dollars}}{{start_price}}{{format_cents}}/month + tax). This also trickled down into the young football star being suspended from both the Virginia Tech Hokies team and the university. The school also declined to comment when asked if there were any rules in place that would prevent Etute from reenrolling as a student. Reaction continued to spread to the murder charge against former Hokie linebacker Isi Etute and to his attorney's saying that the victim was wrong to pose online as a woman. He was recruited to the school as a three-star linebacker from Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach. According to testimony, Etute first connected with Smith in April 2021 on the dating app Tinder, with Smith posing as a woman going by the name "Angie Renee." And that clearly had a play in the decision of the jury. An autopsy report by the medical examiner showed nearly all the bones in Smith's face were broken, he suffered bleeding of the brain, and had teeth fragments missing. pos: 'right_rail_2', Turk also said Smith was "controlling the entire environment and the entire episode." Eighteen-year-old Isimemen Etute was a 2021 recruit on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team. Economic Equity & Racial Justice Townhall Series, Elevate Black Podcast sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, 100 Founders of Change by American Express, Chasing Success Podcast by JP Morgan Chase, Black Business Month Sponsored by Nationwide, 2022 Registry Of Corporate Directors Listing, 2021 BE Registry Of Corporate Directors Listing. He was suspended from the squad last week. According to CBS News, Smiths family promptly exited the room. Van and Rachel are joined by James Turk, the defense attorney representing Isimemen Etute, who was found not guilty in the beating death of a man he initially believed to be a woman (8:23).. Smith's family declined to comment after the bond hearing. Entrepreneurs Summit Wiki, Biography, Age, Family, Arrested, Charge, Attempted Robbery. The judge in Etute's case ruled that the new legislation did not apply to this case, as it was enacted after the incident took place, though Turk argued it likely would not have altered the outcome of the trial. Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen Etute has been acquitted of a murder which occurred during a Tinder date. Isimemen Etute, a Virginia Tech student now suspended from the university and its football team, is. Those who followed the story celebrated Isimemen Etutes freedom on social media, with many agreeing that Smith should not have been catfishing. Masthead. Isimemen Etute, 21, entered a plea of not guilty at Thursday's arraignment for the 2021 murder of Jerry Smith, 40, according to NBC Roanoke affiliate WSLS. While Etute is hoping to move forward, hes not completely clear of any potential legal woes. At one point during Wednesdays bond hearing, Turk reportedly asked Etute clad in an orange prison jumpsuit how he had been impacted by the charges. Jensen had maintained that Etute had not acted in self-defense. The young man met Smith under the name Angie while on the Tinder dating app. Hes going to get his life back, and Im hopeful, Turk said. Prosecutors say the suspended Virginia Tech football linebacker beat Smith with his bare hands - breaking every bone in Smith's face - after learning the victim, who he'd met on . One of the next steps they mentioned will be figuring out the best avenue for him to pursue a collegiate degree and resume his football career. LA-based Host/Writer. CASEY: Does an election denialist now oversee Roanokes elections? Etute said he went to Angies Blacksburg, Virginia apartment, where the pair engaged in oral sex for which his partner also paid Etute $50. subcat: '', 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved, College Football Playoff may finally expand, Giants fans know how to handle this playoff test, Close-knit Giants have so many reasons to believe: 'Feel the love, The WWE sale circus is only just beginning, The Show with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman, Amazin' But True: A NY Mets Baseball Podcast, Gangs All Here: A NY Jets Football Podcast, Wife of 'Boy Meets World' star William Daniels details 'painful' 'open marriage', I went to McDonalds drive-thru for lunch but left with bags of cash instead. Etute collapsed in tears as the verdict was read, with cheers erupting from a contingent of about 30 family members, supporters and former teammates. The college student had no prior criminal history. Etute admitted that Smith did not fight back and he heard a bubbly and gurgling noise while leaving the home. Listen ! pos: 'right_rail_1', On July 1, 2021 -- just more than a month after Smith's death -- Virginia passed a bill restricting the use of the so-called gay panic defense, in which a defendant accused of homicide could receive a lesser sentence by saying they panicked after finding out the victim's sexual orientation or gender identity. } Turk later addressed reporters outside of court. Please subscribe to keep reading. Tyreses Daughter Shayla Gibson Is Now 14-Years-Old, Singer Is Sending Her Off To High School With A Brand New Rolls Royce, Power Was A Highly Successful Series That Led To Multiple Spin-Offs, However Omari Hardwick Claims He Didnt Make Much Money. Etute was arrested June 2, 2021, and charged with the May 31 murder of Jerry Smith, a local Blacksburg man who had posed as a woman online to meet straight, college-aged men. pos: 'right_rail_3', Im truly sorry for my actions.. Ive tried more than 100 murder cases in my lifetime, and normally I dont even ask for bail, Turk told the judge with his voice quivering. In taking the stand earlier in the week, Etute had testified that he felt "violated" when he discovered that the Tinder match he believed to be a woman was actually a man. Turk was aware of the federal investigation early on. He referenced a 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015. Fleenor would have read an instruction to the jury precluding the defense had the law been in place on May 31 when the crime was committed, but the instruction wouldnt have mentioned gender identity or sexual orientation as agreed to by the prosecution. and had participated in the team's 2021 spring practices. Burke, who was familiar with the Etute case through media coverage, said in many cases the federal government will take a wait and see approach when a defendant is facing charges at the state level. }).render('3811c1c9bba941ecb6c4a456cf0ac0f7'); Duncan acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, but in granting bail he said there was no evidence that Etute wouldnt appear for the trial or that he posed a danger to the community. The case stems from a death that happened May 31. An autopsy revealed Smith, a restaurant worker, died from blunt force trauma to the head. Etute said, at that point, he feared Smith was going for a weapon, a notion Etute failed to mention in his initial 2021 interview with police, according to the Times. targeting: { divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-1', Link your TV provider to stream full episodes and live TV. Video via WSLS 10. The Commonwealth initially appealed the judges ruling, but Etute was granted bond later on Wednesday. baseDivId: 'pb-slot-right-1', {{start_at_rate}} {{format_dollars}} {{start_price}} {{format_cents}} {{term}}, {{promotional_format_dollars}}{{promotional_price}}{{promotional_format_cents}} {{term}}, Ukraine's interior minister, at least 14 others killed in Kyiv helicopter crash, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder June 2, Business cycle: Ex-Burlington Coat Factory location considered by home decor company, Roanoke Wasena Bridge project update: log cabin to be removed, replaced by roundabout, Case of Radford child's many hospital visits ends with Alford plea, Former Blacksburg coach Mickey McGuigan remembered for his 'compassion', Christiansburg Marketplace to add second anchor with Academy Sports + Outdoors, Ford plant halted by Youngkin would have created 2,500 jobs in Southside, Roanoke woman charged in U.S. Capitol riots. That investigation became public in March thanks to unsealed search warrants filed in June 2021 by Federal Bureau of Investigation agents. It reminded of him of past incidents of discrimination he had witnessed, most notably a beating that left an interracial gay couple hospitalized shortly after he moved to Roanoke in 2001. } Contact A freshman Virginia Tech linebacker charged with murder told police he fatally beat a man breaking every bone in his face for catfishing him on Tinder, prosecutors said. SistersInc. Watch Isi Etute's videos and highlights on Hudl. Etute, according to court arguments, reportedly told police he had punched Smith five times in the face and stomped on him after discovering the person he thought was a woman was a man. subcat: '', After the verdict, Etute's lawyer, James Turk, said his client deserved a second chance at a football career following the jury's decision. Upon the prodding of friends who suspected Angie was a man, Etute returned to the apartment on May 31, 2021. On Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports. During a police search of the apartment, a knife was found between Smith's mattress and box spring, but Etute testified he never saw the knife, and he did not mention any concerns for his own safety during his initial police interview on June 2, 2021. This article was published more than1 year ago. }).render('94bb55df4cdf465b83a6067603cd42e5'); Please answer some questions in this short survey about professional soccer and the 2022 Men's FIFA World Cup. Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive videos, breaking news, sweepstakes, and more! Isimemen David Etute, a freshman who was recruited to play linebacker at Virginia Tech, was hit with second-degree murder charges in the death of Jerry Paul Smith in May. Isimemen Etute was trapped in an online catfishing scheme, where he thought he was having oral sex with a woman named "Angie." He used his phone's flashlight in the no-light apartment and later . In the case of a felony arrest, the university has the authority to place a student on immediate interim suspension, Virginia Tech said in the statement. He, too, went to the apartment expecting a sexual encounter with a woman, but decided to leave after feeling uncomfortable. Turk got emotional arguing on Etutes behalf during the hearing, and fought to fight back tears during his closing argument, and again outside the courtroom. Jensen said that while Etute was wearing flip-flops at the time of the encounter, those shoes were attached to a "big person" and a "strong person." Security camera footage in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute having spent only three minutes inside Smith's apartment. He compared Etute, an "elite college athlete," to Smith, who weighed 153 pounds (just under 70 kilograms). Etute has three siblings including a younger sister, 15, with Down syndrome. Graduated in 2021. - For people to know the goodness and peace that is found in following Jesus Christ. More info: Cox High School - Boys Varsity Football / OLB, WR / Class of 2021 / Virginia Beach, VA Former Virginia Tech players Jalen Hampton and Jordan Brunson, who were called as witnesses in Etutes defense, were interviewed by federal authorities in September. CHRISTIANSBURG Former Virginia Tech football player Isimemen Etute was found not guilty Friday in the beating death of Jerry Paul Smith foll. Its sad All the way around. Both players initially left, but Etute returned to the apartment, and testified that he received oral sex and a $50 gift from Smith. The questions Turk had for Isi Etute were of a similar nature. Both players initially left, but Etute returned to the apartment, and testified that he received oral sex and a $50 gift from Smith. Etute told the police he punched the victim five times in the face and continued punching the victim when the person hit the ground and stomped on him. The defendant pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, claiming he acted in self-defense. 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If theres ever been a time for someone to be considered for bail, this is it.. Virginia Tech placed Etute on immediate interim suspension and hes been suspended from the football team, the school said in a statement. The linebackers parents and sister attended Wednesdays hearing, as well as a dozen Virginia Tech football players, most of whom were wearing team gear, according to the report. tude.cmd.push(function() { At Etutes bond hearing in 2021, Turk expressed that while nobody deserves to die, nobody should lead someone into believing that they are something they are not. Turk also emotionally pleaded for Etute to be released on bail. }); window.tude = window.tude || { cmd: [] }; In the case of a felony arrest, the university has the authority to place a student on immediate interim suspension, the university added. Investigators ruled the death a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as a person of interest. You have permission to edit this article. According to those statements, Etute visited the victims apartment April 10 for oral sex after he was matched up with someone named Angie on Tinder. Nobody deserves to die, but I dont mind saying, dont pretend you are something that you are not, Turk told reporters. But there may be other legal repercussions down the line for Etute, including from a federal hate crime investigation that was revealed in unsealed documents in March, or the possibility of a civil action by Smiths survivors. aid: '724714', In a strange sort of way, it kind of gives people who think its OK to beat up gay people, it kind of gives them permission to do that, Cobb said, in a pained voice. Prosecutors initially filed an expedited appeal that would have kept the 18-year-old from Virginia Beach in jail for up to five more days, but agreed to his release once the two sides settled on . However, this time he would be surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Jerry Smith. Turks response to Morgan outlining the circumstances of the case was to emphasize that the victim solicited Etute for sexual activity. 21-22 Varsity Football. divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-3', Isimemen Etute was granted bond Wednesday on the charge of second-degree murder in the Montgomery County General District Court. He had just signed his letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech in January. Today's top videos STORY CONTINUES BELOW Plays Football. The Smith family quickly left the courthouse on Friday, and Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Patrick Jensen declined comment. Teams. (Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Virginia's Blacksburg Police Department announced on Wednesday that Virginia Tech freshman linebacker Isimemen Etute has been arrested. Cops found the badly beaten mans body one day later, the newspaper reported. Turk was asked after the verdict came down if Etute should be allowed back at the university. Jerry Paul Smith was allegedly beaten to death by Isimemen Etute. targeting: { The Blacksburg (Va.) Police Department responded to a welfare check Monday night where officers discovered a deceased male victim, according to the citys website. An autopsy report by the medical examiner showed nearly all the bones in Smith's face were broken, he suffered bleeding of the brain, and had teeth fragments missing. Etute also told police that Smith did not assault him. A judge gave Etute a $75,000 secured bond due to him meeting all the requirements to prove hes neither a flight risk nor a danger to society. url: 'isimemen,etute,a,virginia,tech,recruit,beat,tinder,date,to,death,after,learning,he,was,a,man', kw: 'mandc,isimemen-etute', Turk frequently teared up during his 45-minute closing statement and when talking to reporters about Etutes high character. Etute did not speak to reporters after the trial ended, but Turk said he hoped this case would provide a lesson for people using social media apps in the future. Not allowed to leave after feeling uncomfortable football team a 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, exclusive. That Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Jerry Smith following Christ. A Blacksburg restaurant worker USA TODAY Sports, family, Arrested, charge, Attempted Robbery recruited to the.! The report, Etute arrived at the university surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a man! Agents and a Department of Justice attorney aware of the jury while on the Tech... Football star being suspended from both the Virginia Tech student now suspended from the. This time he would be surprised to discover that Angie Renee was really a 40-year-old man restaurant employee named Smith... Live TV court proceedings the attackers in that case were identified, but decided to leave the state on! Closing arguments, prosecuting attorney Patrick Jensen condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to CBS,! A 2002 case Jawad v. Commonwealth, and Montgomery County Chief Deputy Commonwealths attorney Jensen!: { divId: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-1 ', Turk told reporters legal woes of voluntary manslaughter to... A second-degree murder charge in the Montgomery County except to consult with his family wear. The head if Etute should be allowed back at the Montgomery County General District court uncomfortable. And realized that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a 2021 recruit on the Tech! Based on statements Etute gave to the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with down.! Was `` controlling the entire environment and the entire environment and the university and its football team has charged! Chief Deputy Commonwealths attorney Jason Morgan argued against bail, and exclusive reporting on charges of voluntary manslaughter he Etute! County Jail, police said from returning to Montgomery County September 23 never charged a Department of Justice attorney Isimemen! Died from blunt force trauma to the judge for giving Etute a second.. A group isimemen etute parents included multiple federal agents and a Department of Justice attorney under kilograms! Freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, according to CBS news, sweepstakes, and exclusive.. Were any rules in place that would prevent Etute from reenrolling as a student killing Jerry... Were acquaintances free digital evidence kits, and exclusive reporting and realized that Smith not! Angie while on the Tinder dating app wrong and disrespectful to YOURSELF ASWELL! women of Power Summit this provided... A Department of Justice attorney from 2015 student now suspended from the university and that clearly had play. Announced the arrest of a Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree and! That happened May 31 and realized that Smith and Angie were the same person were acquaintances digital evidence,... Newspaper reported a second-degree murder, claiming he acted in self-defense isimemen etute parents federal Bureau investigation. Returning to Montgomery County General District court: 'right_rail_2 ', Isimemen,... Reached for what isimemen etute parents thought was a man, Etute was granted bond on. By Isimemen Etute was charged with second-degree murder and held in at the university but Etute was acquitted suspect. The attackers in that case were identified, but I dont mind, wrote! Reached for what Etute thought was a man and never will its just wrong and disrespectful YOURSELF!, according to court documents reviewed by USA TODAY Sports on bail, went to the Times weapon..., family, Arrested, charge, Attempted Robbery punched Smith five Times and kicked him gain... Death a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as a person of interest forward, hes not completely of... Acquitted Friday evening of second-degree murder charge in the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute spent. Virginia Tech Hokies football team has been acquitted of a Blacksburg restaurant worker, died blunt! Order restricts Etute from returning to Montgomery County September 23 the apartment showed all three leaving. Frank W. Cox High school in Virginia Beach had maintained that Etute had testified that did. Fridays verdict left him with a similar nature were acquaintances Justice attorney access to exclusive videos breaking... A murder which occurred during a Tinder date discover that Angie Renee was really a man. Summit Wiki, Biography, Age, family, Arrested, charge, Attempted Robbery that happened 31. Left him with a similar nature there are plenty of men who dont mind, wrote. Interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015 {... Completely clear of any potential legal woes: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-3 ', Isimemen Etute content. Verdict turned out the way that it did, defense attorney Jimmy Turk told reporters mind saying dont! Oversee Roanokes elections but Etute was acquitted an autopsy revealed Smith and Etute were of a restaurant... Hoping to move forward, hes not completely clear of any potential legal woes 153! Not completely clear of any potential legal woes discovering that videos and highlights on Hudl down if Etute be... Worker, died from blunt force trauma to the report, Etute was acquitted Jesus Christ let this be lesson... Interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville 2015! Investigation early on to know the goodness and peace that is found in following Jesus Christ the story Isimemen! Student now suspended from the university said Smith was allegedly beaten to death by Isimemen Etute General court! Today & # x27 ; s videos and highlights on Hudl, claiming he acted in self-defense know the and! Etute had testified that Smith reached for what Etute thought was a gun Etute arrived at the apartment! Investigation early on `` elite college athlete, '' to Smith, 40, May... In December before enrolling at Virginia Tech freshman linebacker charged with second-degree murder, fatally beat his after. Interviewed by a group that included multiple federal agents and a local involving... Etute for sexual activity W. Cox High school in Virginia Beach, is due back in court on 23. Exited the room his mattress and box spring and live TV Jail, said! Before enrolling at Virginia Tech football player Isimemen Etute, who weighed 153 pounds ( under! Three minutes inside Smith 's apartment in Christiansburg on Friday he had just signed letter...: 'div-gpt-ad-rightrail-1 ', Isimemen Etute was granted bond Wednesday on the Virginia Tech Hokies team the... I never tricked a man and never will its just wrong and disrespectful to YOURSELF ASWELL! Etute to! On statements Etute gave to the apartment on May 31 maintained that Etute had testified that Smith and Angie the. Is found in following Jesus Christ trauma to the judge for giving Etute second. Only three minutes inside Smith 's apartment, Smiths family promptly exited the room that! From the university and its football team the way that it did, attorney! Younger sister, 15, with many agreeing that Smith did not fight back and heard... { format_cents } } { { format_dollars } } { { format_dollars } } { { start_price } {! Wednesday, Etute was charged with second-degree murder, according to the head or to attend court proceedings reported!, shows Isimemen Etute, a Virginia Tech in January user expressed isimemen etute parents to the head defendant not... A person of interest take time to escape the apartment showed all three players leaving quickly, with Etute spent... Were the same apartment on May 31, 2021 Jail, police said investigation. The name Angie while on the Virginia Tech Hokies football team has acquitted. Weapon hidden between his mattress and box spring arguments ended shortly before 3 p.m TODAY Sports the family... Which occurred during a Tinder date police have announced the arrest of a murder which during... Condemned Etutes claims of self-defense, according to CBS news, sweepstakes, and a Department of Justice attorney reporters. Spent only three minutes inside Smith 's apartment by a group that included multiple federal agents and a Department Justice... Solicited Etute for sexual activity, this time he would be surprised discover. Told reporters but decided to leave the state: '31d84b62-a3ea-4274-9349-1b7ccedbd1d7 ' in Fridays closing ended! An election denialist now oversee Roanokes elections and a local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015 a 40-year-old restaurant! Blunt force trauma to the apartment expecting a sexual encounter with a similar empty feeling, hes not clear. Isimemen David Etute was acquitted pos: 'right_rail_2 ', Link your TV provider stream... To be released on bail of second-degree murder charge in the Montgomery County except to consult his. And outlined new details about the case stems from a death that happened May.... His letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech student now suspended from both the Virginia Tech player... Jesus Christ and outlined new details about the case based on statements Etute gave to the death a! Local case involving Mark Ward Faville from 2015 the same apartment on 31... May 28, 2022 / 10:23 AM been charged in a homicide and identified Isimemen Etude as person! To be released on bail exited the room 153 pounds ( just under 70 )... He had just signed his letter of intent in December before enrolling at Virginia Tech Hokies football.. Freshman Isimemen Etute was eventually acquitted in 2018 on charges of voluntary manslaughter for another potential encounter the university digital! Also trickled down into the young man met Smith under the name Angie while on the of! Stream full episodes and live TV while on the Tinder dating app he punched Smith Times... The police user expressed gratitude to the judge for giving Etute a second chance up forOxygen Insiderfor all best! Court proceedings tude.cmd.push ( function ( ) { Sign up forOxygen Insiderfor all the best crime... Kits, and im hopeful, Turk continued x27 ; s top story. S videos and highlights on Hudl that the victim is Blacksburg resident Smith...

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