EKB News

Pike County Circuit Court Judge Eddy Coleman has rejected a plea deal for two former East Ridge High School students. Pike County Commonwealth Attorney Rick Bartley recommended a 30 day jail sentence, two years probation, 200 hours of community service and restitution for 18 year old Jacob Ratliff and a 17 year old male. The duo pleaded guilty last week to three felony criminal mischief charges, five misdemeanor criminal mischief charges and eight misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. Ratliff and the 17 year old admitted that they drove to a strip mine near Elkhorn City and shot at a herd of horses, killing three. Since Judge Coleman has turned down the plea agreement the boys have two options. One they could withdraw there guilty pleas, or they could accept the punishment that the judge hands down. The felony charges carry penalties of up to five years in prison. Each misdemeanor carries up to one year of jail time. A status hearing has been scheduled for Thursday.