The 13-year old boy accused of killing another teen over a stolen iPhone was back in Erie County Court Monday with attorneys discussing whether to move the case to Family Court.
Jean Sachez has been charged as an adult with second-degree murder, first-degree criminal sexual act, and first-degree petit larceny in the death of 13-year old Ameer Al Shammari.
The teen appeared in front of Judge Sheila DiTullio Monday alongside attorneys and a Spanish interpreter. Defense Attorney Paul Dell says he will file a motion this week to ask to have the case moved to family court. If the case is moved, Sanchez would be tried as juvenile.
During the hearing, prosecutors asked Dell if he plans to use an insanity defense in the case.
“I have not filed any such notice. Any motion to preclude at this time I submit is premature. If I do submit a notice then we can argue it then,” said Dell.
Prosecutors say Sanchez sexually assaulted Al Shammari before strangling him with a hoodie string back in May. He later confessed to the crime, but the defense says the confession was coerced.
Sanchez is currently being held at East Ferry Detention Center. The case will reconvene on December 16.