(KTTS News) — One of two men charged with the kidnapping and murder of Cassidy Rainwater in 2021 has entered an Alford plea to a charge of first-degree murder.
James Phelps, 60, entered the Alford plea on Friday and was sentenced to life in prison.
An Alford plea is not an admission of guilt, but it does mean Phelps believes the state has enough evidence to convict him.
His trial had been moved from Dallas County to Jasper County on a change of venue.
Phelps was charged after 33-year-old Cassidy Rainwater disappeared in 2021.
DNA evidence confirmed her flesh was found in his freezer.
The Dallas County sheriff says the rest of the woman’s remains were found scattered on property belonging to her grandfather.
A second man, 58-year-old Timothy Norton, will appear in court next month.
