Marko Lacharr McGee found Guilty of 1st Degree Murder in the death of Diabulo White.
After a 4-day trial, Marko Lacharr McGee, 52, of Battle Creek, was found guilty by jury in the death of Diabulo White, 43, also of Battle Creek. The jury deliberated over two days before convicting Mr. McGee of 1st Degree Murder in Mr. White's death, along with charges of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Resisting/Obstructing a Police Officer, and Felony Firearm. He was also charged as a 4th Habitual [violent] offender. 1st Degree Murder carries a penalty of Life in prison without the possibility of parole.
According to Calhoun County Prosecutor David Gilbert and Assistant Prosecutor Karen Pawloski and the testimony of witnesses, on May 21, 2018, Diabulo White's body was found in the trunk of his girlfriend's car after it had been abandoned and towed to a Battle Creek impound lot. Family had reported him missing the day before. McGee was arrested later on the 21st after a brief chase with Battle Creek Police Department Officers. Officers testified McGee was in possession of a semiautomatic pistol, which he threw while being chased. During police interviews and at trial, McGee claimed he killed Mr. White in self defense when Mr. White attacked him. Noting testimony showing Mr. McGee had cleaned the crime scene, hid the body and did not report the death, Gilbert claimed the murder was premeditated and not self defense. A pathologist testified Mr. White died of multiple injuries to his head and neck with injuries including blunt head trauma, stab wounds to the neck, and strangulation. In closing arguments, Gilbert argued due to the nature and extent of Mr. White's injuries, and the lack of injuries to Mr. McGee, the murder was premeditated.
Trial had been delayed due to COVID closures. Sentencing is set for August 5, 2022.
