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Oklahoma judge sets October trial in robbery attempt case

| Published: June 28, 2012

CHICKASHA (AP) — A Blanchard resident accused of participating in a robbery attempt in which another man was fatally shot by a young widow has pleaded not guilty to a first-degree murder charge.

Grady County District Attorney Jason Hicks said Dustin Stewart entered the plea during a formal arraignment Thursday. Hicks says the judge scheduled an Oct. 15 trial date.

Prosecutors have charged Stewart under a state law that allows a murder conviction if an accomplice dies while committing a felony.

Authorities say Sarah McKinley fatally shot Justin Martin Dec. 31 as he and Stewart allegedly tried to enter her home in search of painkillers. Investigators allege the men believed the medication was being kept by McKinley's husband, who died of cancer.

Stewart's attorney, Steven Buzin, didn't immediately return a message seeking comment.