CALDWELL -- A Caldwell teenager set to go on trial for the murder of his father has reached a plea agreement with Canyon County prosecutors.
Fifteen-year-old Zachary Neagle was being tried as an adult for first-degree murder. His trial was set to start Friday morning, but defense attorneys and prosecutors struck a deal.
Neagle has agreed to plead guilty to to a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter. In exchange for that plea, prosecutors will recommend he serve at least seven years of a 30-year prison sentence. He would remain in juvenile custody until he turns 21.
Third District Judge Bradley Ford deferred sentencing until May 12 to allow more time to review the plea agreement. Neagle could still withdraw his plea if the judge does not accept the terms of the deal.
Neagle cried while recounting the day he shot he father. He testified that his dad had sexually molested him for years and that morning he had again been molested. Neagle said the next time his father said he would include his younger brother and sister.
It was in May of 2009 when prosecutors say Neagle, who was 14 at the time, shot his father Jason Neagle in the head while he slept on the couch.
If convicted of first-degree murder, he could have faced up to life in prison.
