Third Teen Won't Face Death in Girl's Slaying

Carthage, N.C. — A third of five teens charged in the September shooting death of a 12-year-old Moore County girl won't face the death penalty if convicted, authorities said.

Emily Elizabeth Haddock was at home sick on Sept. 21 when someone broke into her Marks Road home outside Vass and shot her several times with a .22-caliber handgun, authorities said. Investigators said they believe the intruders intended to burglarize the house, but were surprised to find the girl at home.

Sherrod Nicholas Harrison, 20, Michael Graham Currie, 18, Van Roger Smith Jr., 16, and Perry Ross Schiro, 19, all of Cameron, and Ryan Jermar White, 18, of Sanford, have been indicted on charges of murder and breaking and entering in the case.

Moore County prosecutors said they don't plan to pursue a capital case against Schiro in the case. They earlier said they wouldn't seek the death penalty against White and couldn't seek it against Smith because of his age.

Prosecutors said they would seek the death penalty against Harrison and Currie.

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He knew right from wrong and therefore, regardless of age should have to pay the consequences of taking this young girls life. How can you send some to death row, and not him because of his age? Will this make him a better person, I hardly doubt it? He commited a crime along with his running buddies. But thats "OK" God is still in control and take care of this issue in His own way. Trust in Him.

Dr. Dataclerk
February 20, 2008 4:56 p.m.