Zahra Baker Update: Police Give Evidence to Prosecutors in Case of Murdered N.C. Girl
HICKORY, N.C. (CBS/AP) Hickory police have handed over evidence to prosecutors in the investigation into the death of 10-year-old Zahra Clare Baker, whose body was dismembered and scattered all over Catawba County.
The Hickory Daily Record reported that investigators, who have worked steadily since the disabled girl was reported missing Oct. 9, delivered their findings to the District Attorney's Office Thursday.
"We turned over a preliminary case file to the District Attorney's office for him to start reviewing and consider what course of action he wants to take concerning who he wants to charge and what charges he wants to pursue," Chief Tom Adkins of the Hickory Police Department told the newspaper.
Although no one has been charged with Zahra's murder, the young girl's stepmother Elisa Baker is in police custody for an obstruction of justice charge relating to the Zahra's disappearance and death, but has denied any further wrongdoing.
Zahra's father Adam Baker was also jailed during the investigation; however, the charges did not pertain to the case.
Zahra was reported missing by Adam Baker, who has also not been ruled out as a suspect, according to police.
According to The Hickory Daily Record, Zahra's father and stepmother are scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 27.
Authorities are asking anyone with information on the case to contact the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551.
COMPLETE COVERAGE OF ZAHRA BAKER ON CRIMESIDER
