Triple Murder Trial Verdict

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By Kyle Midura

Story Published: Mar 17, 2010 at 6:28 PM MST

Story Updated: Mar 18, 2010 at 9:27 AM MST

Billings, MT
45.7531899 -108.567792

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BILLINGS - After more than a month-long trial, a Yellowstone County jury found a Billings man guilty of murder.

Jurors said Richard Covington killed three of his neighbors in September 2006. The jury surprised many Wednesday by rendering its verdicts less than a day into deliberations. The jurors had 15 felony charges to consider and found Covington guilty on all counts.

Jurors convicted 47-year-old Richard Covington of killing his neighbors Norman Leighton, Gerald Morris and Patti Hubbert in September 2006.

The verdict overwhelmed members of the victims' family. They said the verdict was a relief. "We're pleased for the families of the victims, pleased that we were able to put it together," said Lead Prosecutor Scott Twito.

The jury also convicted Covington of several drug charges, arson, and tampering with evidence. With 15 counts to prove, the trial exhausted the prosecution. "There are a lot of people who put a lot of hours into this case," said Twito, "for that I'm grateful."

In 2006, police found Leighton and Hubbert dead and beaten in their home. Police suspected fellow victim Gerald Morris until they found his body about two weeks later on the side of Blue Creek Road.

Investigators said Covington set the house on fire to cover his tracks. Nearly four years later a jury found him guilty, but the trial's not quite over yet. "They have their right to appeal," said Twito, "we also have a sentencing to get ready for, so that's what we'll focus our attention on."

A sentencing date has not been set yet. Covington is already serving a 40-year term for assault and robbery, and with this conviction he could spend the rest of his life in prison.

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Robin said on Thursday, Mar 18 at 8:01 AM

It should be a crime to wear that sweater in public

wdw said on Wednesday, Mar 17 at 4:21 PM

ONE BAD DUDE OFF THE STRETS FOREVER. NOW WE STILL HAVE TO FEED THE BEAST FOR A LONG TIME. MAYBE NOT. THERE ARE SOME BAD DUDES WHERE HE'S GOING. LET'S HOPE.

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