In a recent turn of events, Jesus Ayala, who was accused of fatally striking retired police chief Andreas "Andy" Probst while he was cycling in August 2023, has come to a plea agreement with prosecutors. Per FOX5 Vegas, court documents reveal that Ayala will plead guilty to second-degree murder with the use of a deadly weapon, battery with a deadly weapon, and robbery.
Under a unique type of plea known as an Alford plea, Ayala did not admit guilt for a count of battery with a deadly weapon resulting in substantial bodily harm, but recognized the prosecution's likely ability to convict on that charge. This plea negotiation means that Ayala, who sat 17 at the time of the incident, could face a sentence ranging from 20 years to life in prison, as reported by 8 News Now. His sentencing has been scheduled for Dec. 30.
Ayala's co-defendant, Jzamir Keys, who was 16 when the crime took place, is expected to accept a plea agreement as well, which is contingent upon Ayala's deal. Details of Key's plea are slated to emerge following an anticipated plea agreement on Oct. 14, according to jail records mentioned in the same report. The crimes took place on Aug. 14, 2023, during what has been described by the police as a violent crime spree involving the intentional hit-and-run of two bicyclists.
One key aspect of the prosecution's case is video evidence that reportedly shows Probst and another bicyclist being intentionally struck in separate incidents. The Clark County District Court Judge Christy Craig found Ayala competent for trial after an evaluation at a mental health facility, allowing the proceedings to move forward to their current state. Despite being tried as an adult, Ayala's sentence must include probation after 20 years, in accordance with laws governing juvenile offenders, 8 News Now reports. The widow of the retired police chief has declined to comment on the recent developments.
