Slaying Suspect Could Face Death

CBS News Up To The Minute is focusing on local news with its daily "Eye On:" segment. At :40 past the hour, we will tell the stories that are not being told on any other network broadcast, straight from the CBS News affiliates and journalists who are covering them. Today's Eye On: Indianapolis comes from our affiliate, WISH-TV.

28-year old Desmond Turner, along with James Stewart, both face seven counts of murder and seven counts of felony murder for last week's slaying of seven family members.

For now, only Turner faces the death penalty.

"Asking for the death penalty is a serious request," Carl Brizzi, Marion County Prosecutor, said. "I don't do it lightly. I save it for the most egregious offenses and most evil offenders."

Brizzi said he filed five aggravators or factors that qualify this to be a capital punishment case. Among them, allegations that three of Turner's victims were children.

"This is a cowardly act, an act of terrorism," said Brizzi. "Three children executed face down as they were lying on mattresses."

Back in the neighborhood, friends of the family say they feel a sense of relief. Relief knowing Desmond Turner now faces the death penalty. Norma Revollar, a friend of one of the victims, said she was glad about it. She feels more safe coming to the neighborhood and she is not scared coming here anymore.

The Fear that gripped the neighborhood after the slayings has been replaced with remorse. Friends and strangers continue to stop by the house to remember the lives lost.

"I think the neighborhood is coming together," said Frank Dobson, a neighbor. "I'm glad to see that. They were good people."

Brizzi says the evidence against Turner is overwhelming. He is now building his case against James Stewart. Police have interviewed more than 40 witnesses in the case. There's a possibility of more arrests.

Both Turner and Stewart were in court Tuesday and will make a second appearance Wednesday.
by Jay Hermacinski