Prosecutors end closing arguments in McNeill trial

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (AP) – Prosecutors have completed their closing arguments in the trial of a man accused of the rape and murder of a 5-year-old Fayetteville girl.

The Fayetteville Observer reports (http://bit.ly/13GlAZ7) that Cumberland County Assistant District Attorney Robby Hicks said it was clear that Mario McNeill who kidnapped, raped and suffocated Shaniya Davis in November 2009.

Statements from District Attorney Billy West twice led defense attorneys to seek a mistrial. Superior Court Judge Jim Ammons ruled against both motions.

Defense attorneys began their closing arguments Tuesday afternoon.

McNeill could face the death penalty if convicted. The 32-year-old decided not to testify.

Ammons said he would prefer not to recess court over the four-day weekend if the jury has not reached a verdict by Thursday afternoon.

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