A 16-year-old San Luis Valley boy facing premeditated murder charges in the deaths of his mother and stepfather in 2009 has reached a plea deal with prosecutors, 9News reported today.
John Caudle was 14 when Tracy and Joanne Rinebarger were found shot to death in their Monte Vista home. He was charged as an adult.
His lawyers had indicated they would argue Caudle was abused, including his mother withholding food from him as a punishment.
According to court documents, Caudle confessed to using two 22-caliber pistols in the killings, saying it was the result of an argument over chores.
A hearing is planned for next week so that Judge Martin A. Gonzales can consider the propose plea agreement, 9News reported. No details of the agreement have been made public.
His trial was scheduled to begin May 27.
Caudle previously pleaded not guilty to a string of related charges, including murder after deliberation, assault and car theft.
