The murder case of 14-year-old Zaveon Marks is back in adult court.
New first degree murder charges were filed against Marks Friday. Marks is charged two first-degree murder counts and a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal June shooting of 16-year-old Zarious Fair in Peoria’s East Bluff neighborhood.
Marks’ case was temporarily dropped and moved back to juvenile court to clarify his sentencing exposure. The state is seeking 20 to 60 years of prison time for the teenager. His public defender, William Loeffel, argues a sentence over 45 years would effectively be a life sentence, in violation of Marks' rights.
Eighteen-year-old Doyle Nelson also faces murder charges in connection with the case. But authorities say they believe Marks pulled the trigger. Another hearing is expected next week.
