A west Omaha murder suspect is in court for the first time since being arrested.
Douglas Co. Judge Derek Vaughn denies bond to LeAndre Jennings, 29, in the murder of Michael Brinkman, 50.
Prosecutors say December 23, 2016, Jennings and another man broke into Brinkman's home near 180th and Q Streets and demanded money. A struggle ensued, and Brinkman was shot once. Prosecutors wouldn't reveal a motive, or if Jennings and Brinkman knew each other. The suspects allegedly dropped two unidentified items during the struggle. DNA testing traced the items back to Jennings.
"It's critical in this case and as they said in court it is the DNA that identified the suspect and that was a critical piece of evidence in this case and it will be for trial," said Deputy Co. Attorney Brenda Beadle.
Prosecutors say Jennings and his girlfriend rented a newer white Dodge Durango that matched the photos near the scene.
Investigators haven’t identified the second suspect yet.
"The police again are working tirelessly, they're following every lead possible, and I know they're not going to give up," Beadle explained.
Jennings will have a preliminary hearing in March to determine if there's enough evidence to move him to trial.
If convicted he faces up to life in prison. He’s also charged with use of a weapon to commit a felony and felon in possession of a weapon.
