The trial for Jason Jones, who is accused of murdering Gene, Janet and Dana Twiford and Michele Ebeling in the early morning hours of Aug. 4, 2022 is continuing in Dakota County District Court.
Jones also allegedly set fire to the houses after the killings.
Through the course of the last week, numerous witnesses have testified for the prosecution in regard to evidence found at the scenes of the crimes, as well as that in Jones' home.
Todd Lancaster, Jones' defense attorney, filed a motion to changes Jones' first degree murder charge for Michele Ebeling. This motion was denied.
Lancaster also requested the two 1st degree arson charges changed to 2nd degree. The judged denied this motion, but the jury will get to decide if Jones is guilty of 1st or 2nd degree arson.
Jones' wife, Carrie Jones, also faces charges related to the murders. She pleaded not guilty to 1st degree murder, tampering with evidence and being an accessory to a felony. Her next hearing is set for November in Cedar County Court.
