Jeannette murder suspect getting new defense team covered by taxpayers

A murder suspect says she's not happy with her defense team so she's getting a new one and taxpayers will foot the bill.

PREVIOUS STORY: Trial begins for girlfriend accused of killing 19-year-old man found in Jeannette apartment

Crystal Belle claimed her public defenders haven't met with her and ignored her requests to gather evidence on her behalf, including, exhuming the victim's body, according to Channel 11's News partner The Tribune-Review.

We've been following this story since it happened last year. Police say Belle beat her 19-year-old boyfriend Khalil Parker to death inside her Jeanette home.

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Investigators said it was a violent death. She used shoe laces and a snow shovel in the violent beating.

The judge reportedly told Belle today, her lawyers were skilled to do the job.

Our partners at the Trib reported that Belle told the judge "I just want to fight for my life the best I can, I am a really good person." After multiple requests, the judge agreed to remove them, and appointed two private attorneys and it will be the taxpayers picking up the tab.

Private defense attorneys appointed to a murder case make $45 an hour in Westmoreland County.
With a new legal team reviewing the case, the judge said her trial will likely be delayed.

Cox Media Group