Two major McCracken County murder cases end in guilty pleas

Two major murder cases recently ended in guilty pleas, according to McCracken County Commonwealth Attorney Dan Boaz’ office. Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Chuck Walter served as lead prosecutor in both cases.
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Aerion Jones pled guilty to murder and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. 

After arguing about a 16-year-old  female minor July 22, 2021,  Justin Crabtree drove her to the address where Jones and his girlfriend stayed. 

Crabtree dropped the minor off near the residence. Jones confronted Crabtree. The two separated. Jones walked to Crabtree’s house to argue outside, when Crabtree was shot fatally.  

Jones will serve 20 years for murder and ten for possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.
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Clayton Hicks of Paducah pled guilty June 1st to an amended charge of first-degree manslaughter, five counts of wanton endangerment, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  
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Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Chuck Walter said Hicks fired multiple shots at a vehicle driven by the girlfriend of the victim, Chris Hill, on March 11, 2022.  

That followed a failed drug buy at the Lone Oak Villas Apartments, 
Witnesses said the victim, Chris Hill, brandished a firearm in a parking lot, after which he fatally was shot in the back. 

Several casings, believed to be from Hicks’ gun, were found at the scene. 
The plea agreement says Hicks will serve a total of 25 years.