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Death penalty sought against suspect in deputy's slaying

Prosecutors said they plan to seek the death penalty against one of two men charged with killing an off-duty Warren County deputy two years ago.

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WARRENTON, N.C. — Prosecutors said they plan to seek the death penalty against one of two men charged with killing an off-duty Warren County deputy two years ago.

Investigators said they believe Deputy Michael Leonforte was heading home on Sept. 5, 2006, when he drove up to two men standing in the road. The men tried to rob Leonforte after he stopped, and they shot him, authorities said.

Quante Seward and Montellus Burchette were arrested the following day and charged with Leonforte's death.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against Seward.

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