Jackson County State’s Attorney Marsha L. Cascio-Hale announced Tuesday that Marcus Moultrie of De Soto attended his preliminary hearing yesterday afternoon. Preliminary hearings are held to determine whether probable cause exists. The Court found that probable cause did exist after a hearing where an officer testified in great detail about what was found at the home in De Soto.

On Monday that charges against Marcus Moultrie were amended to two counts of first-degree murder following the death of one of the victims in last week’s domestic disturbance. Moultrie also faces an additional attempted murder charge. He remains in custody without pre-trial release.

Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched at approximately 11:07 p.m. on May 13 after receiving a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance on Hickory Street in De Soto. Upon arrival, deputies found a woman unconscious and a second victim with a serious head wound. Both were airlifted to a St. Louis-area hospital. Moultrie was arrested that evening in connection with the incident.

The second victim remains hospitalized and is fighting for her life. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Office extends its deepest sympathies to the family of the victim who lost their life and to the broader De Soto community. Our office remains committed to pursuing the fullest measure of justice and to standing alongside law enforcement throughout this prosecution.

The Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and representing the people of Jackson County, Illinois. Led by State’s Attorney Marsha L. Cascio-Hale, the office is committed to justice, victim advocacy, and the safety of Jackson County residents.