BENTONVILLE, Arkansas – The trial of Shawna Cash, accused of killing a Pea Ridge police officer, Kevin Apple, by hitting him with her vehicle and dragging him nearly 150 feet, began with opening statements from Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Joshua Robinson and Lee Short, one of Cash’s defense attorneys. Cash, 25, faces charges of capital murder, fleeing, two counts of aggravated assault, and obstructing governmental operations.
Robinson told the jury that they would watch difficult videos and hear from witnesses who were present when Officer Apple died. The incident occurred when Apple and fellow officer Brian Stamps responded to a dispatch to be on the lookout for a fleeing Jeep. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Cash.
The prosecution portrays Cash’s actions as deliberate and thoughtful, stating that she made a conscious decision to flee from the police and intentionally hit Officer Apple. Robinson emphasized the tragic events that unfolded and the witnesses who tried to help Apple after the incident.
In contrast, Cash’s defense attorney, Lee Short, admitted that Cash was behind the wheel of the vehicle that hit and killed Apple. He argued that Cash’s intention was to get away from the police, not to harm anyone. Short described a series of events leading up to the encounter with the Pea Ridge officers, stating that Cash was dealing with personal issues and wanted to escape from the situation.
The trial is expected to delve further into the events of that day, including an account from Elijah Andazola, who was with Cash at the time of the incident. Andazola also faces charges in connection with the case and is scheduled for a separate trial.
The proceedings promise to shed light on the tragic events of that day and provide insight into the circumstances that led to the death of Officer Apple. As the trial continues, both the prosecution and the defense will present their perspectives, and the jury will ultimately decide Cash’s fate.