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Wis. slaying suspect changes mind about plea deal

Posted December 22, 2010 10:00 pm

Associated Press

MILWAUKEE — A Milwaukee man accused of killing seven women in 21 years has changed his mind about a plea deal with prosecutors.

A number of victims' relatives showed up in court Thursday after being notified that 50-year-old Walter E. Ellis would change his not-guilty pleas and possibly avert an April trial.

Instead prosecutors and defense attorney Patrick Earle took up routine trial motions. During a break Earle said his client changed his mind but added that he couldn't divulge any other details.

Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm would only say prosecutors are preparing for trial.

Virgie Smith-Norwood, the sister of one of the victims, came to court Thursday. She says the delay makes her angry and the case should have been concluded years ago.

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