New Trial To Start For Man Accused Of Raping, Slaying, Girlfriend's 5-Year-Old Niece, Burning Her Remains

DETROIT (AP) — A new jury trial is expected to start for a 22-year-old Detroit man charged in connection with the abduction, rape and slaying of his girlfriend's 5-year-old niece.

Darnell Cheatham is due to return to Wayne County Circuit Court on Monday morning.

Cheatham is charged with first-degree murder, torture, arson and other crimes in the death of Mariah Smith. Her burned remains were found in a vacant house in 2011.

A judge declared a mistrial in late July after a jury deadlocked during deliberations. Defense lawyer Kareem Johnson has said Cheatham maintains his innocence.

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