Zig Popko discusses Peoria murder on Channel 10

Professor Zig Popko was a guest on Channel 10 on Jan. 23 to discuss the case of a 15-year-old boy suspected in the shooting deaths of two people during a smoke shop robbery.

Popko, a former defense attorney, said the youth will be automatically tried as an adult under Arizona law because it was a first-degree murder.

However, Popko added that the boy could not receive the death penalty because he is under 18 years old. He would likely be sentenced to life or natural life if convicted, he said.

Popko also discussed the prosecution’s approach to the case, saying, if they do not disclose any evidence to the defense that could cast doubt on whether or not the defendant is responsible, it could destroy the case.

To view the entire report, click here.

Popko is the founding director of the College’s Post-Conviction Clinic and teaches a sentencing seminar and workshop. He is a member of the State Bar of Arizona’s Rules of Professional Conduct Committee, and a member of the federal District of Arizona’s CJA Panel Selection Committee. He also sits as a pro tem judge in the Tempe Municipal Court.