Cook’s Murder Charge Dismissed

TYLER — In a state district court in Tyler today, a judge has dismissed murder charges against Kerry Max Cook. A hearing is scheduled June 29th in Cook’s efforts to have himself declared innocent in the 1977 murder. The court Monday approved an agreement between District Attorney Matt Bingham and Cook’s lawyers to dismiss the charges. Cook was convicted in 1978 of the stabbing death of Linda Jo Edwards. He was sentenced to death. Cook maintained his innocence, and the verdict was overturned. A second trial ended in mistrial and a third trial sent him back to death row. Cook later pleaded no contest to the killing for a sentence of time served. Oral arguments are scheduled June 29th in Cook’s efforts to clear his name. At that time, DNA evidence is scheduled to be presented as well as a parade of witnesses. His lawyer’s contend the new evidence will show Cook was wrongly convicted. If the judge agrees, the case will be sent to the court of criminal appeals for final disposition. Because of the up coming hearing, Bingham would not comment on the case.