It's been more than two years since Columbus teen Sinzae Reed was shot and killed by a man on probation.
Krieg Butler, 38, claimed he shot the 13-year-old boy in self defense. Butler is expected to stand trial starting on Monday, not on murder charges, but for felony charges of tampering with evidence and improperly handling firearms.
Butler shot Reed in October 2022 outside of the Wedgewood Drive apartments where Reed and Butler both lived.
Police arrested Butler on a murder charge, but dropped it a day later after Butler's self-defense claim. There have been conflicting witness reports about whether Reed or Butler was the aggressor. No weapon was found with Reed's body.
Butler was on probation at the time of the shooting, following a conviction of domestic violence in municipal court.
Federal law bars people with domestic violence convictions from having firearms.
Franklin County court officials say they expect to select a jury Monday, unless a plea deal is reached. If no plea deal is reached, opening statements will likely start on Tuesday.
Court records show Butler moved to Cincinnati after the shooting.
