Man charged with double homicide in Lincoln asks all Lancaster County judges to recuse themselves

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – A man accused of a double homicide in Lincoln is asking that all Lancaster County judges recuse themselves and that the case be reassigned to another county.

Christopher Johnson, 32, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the slayings of Carlos Silva, 39, and Terrell Jones, 40, outside of The Office Gentlemen’s Club on May 25.

last monthJohnson’s attorney had asked Judge Kevin McManaman to recuse himself because his bailiff was listed as a witness in the case. McManaman agreed and the case was passed to Judge Matthew Mellor.

Johnson’s attorney has since moved to have all Lancaster County judges recuse themselves, arguing that the judges’ familiarity with sheriffs raises concerns about their impartiality.

Judge Mellor has not yet considered the matter, but heard arguments during a hearing on Thursday. He has given the state until Nov. 7 to respond, after which Johnson will be able to respond by Nov. 12. If the request is approved, the case will be transferred to another county.

Johnson could face the death penalty if convicted.

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