Prosecutors seek stiffer charge in Burlington fire death

Posted on Oct 28, 2009 by admin.

Prosecutors are now seeking a first-degree murder charge against a Burlington man accused of killing his ex-wife and setting her house on fire.

Dennis Richards is charged with second-degree murder and second-degree arson in the death of Cyd Richards last January.

Des Moines County prosecutors have asked a judge to allow them to amend the murder charge to first-degree murder. Lead prosecutor Tyron Rogers says in court papers they have received additional reports since the original trial information was filed.

A response from Richards’ defense team was not immediately filed. A hearing on the issue is scheduled for Monday.

Richards’ trial, which has been delayed twice, is set to begin on Dec. 1.

– Associated Press