Murder charges filed

BENTON - A Scott City man now faces first-degree murder charges.

According to Scott County Sheriff Bill Ferrell, Christopher L. Jones, who is charged in connection with the July 10 murder of his stepfather John Mayabb, is now charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action. Previously Jones was charged with second-degree murder.

According to reports, Mayabb was stabbed numerous times at his home and was pronounced dead a short time later at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau.

The first-degree murder charge stems from additional evidence obtained during the autopsy, according to Sgt. Jerry Bledsoe.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Paul Boyd filed the new charge Monday morning. Jones is scheduled for a preliminary hearing before Judge David Mann on Sept. 11.