Emonnie Dion Branch
STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Emonnie Dion Branch, 51, of Portland, Tennessee, was arraigned Tuesday morning in Warren Circuit Court on three charges in the death of Kentucky State Police Trooper Hayden Phillips. His attorneys entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
Branch is charged with murder of a first responder (peace officer), convicted felon in possession of a handgun and tampering with physical evidence. Tuesday’s appearance was his first court date since being indicted in Phillips’ death.
Branch indicated to Warren Circuit Judge J.B. Hines that he understood his rights as a criminal defendant and wanted an attorney appointed to represent him.
Department of Public Advocacy attorneys Sara Zeurcher and Ty Howorth stood with Branch and entered the not guilty plea for him.
Hines also granted the defense team’s evidence-preservation motion. The order directs the preservation of all physical evidence currently in the state’s custody.
It also requires the Warren County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to notify the defense of seized evidence or property that has been released to third parties, destroyed or consumed.
Key facts:
– Branch, 51, is from Portland, Tennessee.
– The arraignment took place in Warren Circuit Court on Oct. 27.
– Branch faces three charges, including murder of a first responder.
– Sara Zeurcher and Ty Howorth entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
– Judge J.B. Hines ordered physical evidence in state custody preserved.
– A status conference is scheduled for Feb. 12.
What’s Next:
Hines scheduled the Feb. 12 status conference to discuss the exchange of discovery evidence in the case.
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