Eric Staup, a 46-year-old man from Lima, OH, tragically died on May 19, 2016, after being shot at his home at 637 N. Metcalf St. The incident occurred during an attempted robbery by Jayleontre Harris, who was 18 years old at the time. Harris went to Staup's home to rob him of marijuana and money at gunpoint. During the robbery, a struggle ensued, and Staup was shot multiple times.
Harris was later indicted on charges of aggravated murder and aggravated robbery with a gun.
In February 2018, Harris was found not guilty of aggravated murder but was convicted of aggravated robbery with a firearm. He received a 14-year prison sentence for the robbery charge. The jury determined that Harris did not intentionally kill Staup, as the fatal gunshot occurred during the struggle when Staup lunged for the gun.
The case drew significant attention in Lima, with Harris's trial highlighting the complexities of the incident. Witnesses testified about the struggle and the sequence of events leading to Staup's death. Despite the not guilty verdict on the murder charge, Harris was held accountable for his actions during the robbery.
The tragic death of Eric Staup and the subsequent legal proceedings underscore the devastating consequences of violent crimes and the challenges of the justice system in determining intent and responsibility.
