FAIRMONT, W.Va. — After three days of testimony, including taking the stand in her own defense, a Fairmont woman entered a plea in her murder trial.
Alma Barnett entered an Alford Plea Friday, January 6, in the November 2015 shooting death of her neighbor Carol Zurasky.
Barnett had been charged with first-degree murder.
An Alford Plea means the defendant agrees the prosecution has enough evidence to convict her, although she maintains her innocence.
Prosecutors and Barnett’s attorney agreed to a life sentencing with the eligibility for parole as part of the plea agreement.
Barnett had said she was acting in self defense when she murdered Zurasky in Barnett’s home.
Barnett could be eligible for parole in 15 years.