SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - An inmate who has acknowledged killing
a South Dakota prison guard in a failed escape attempt is expected
to make a statement Thursday during the last day of his
pre-sentencing hearing.
Forty-nine-year-old Rodney Berget has pleaded guilty to killing
Ronald Johnson on April 12 - Johnson's 63rd birthday - during a
failed prison escape with fellow inmate Eric Robert.
Berget has said he wants a judge, not a jury, to decide whether
he should live or die for the crime.
Berget is expected to read a statement before the defense rests
its case Thursday morning.
Zell earlier sentenced 49-year-old Robert to death for his part
in the slaying.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-02-02-12 0516EST
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