GRAND RAPIDS (WWJ/AP) - A Michigan man accused of killing a woman and dismembering her body has rejected a plea deal that offered an opportunity for parole after 31 years in prison.
Jared Chance of Grand Rapids told a judge Monday that he wants to go to trial in the death of 31-year-old Ashley Young of Oshtemo Township, in the Kalamazoo area
Young was last seen alive at a liquor store with Chance prior to her disappearance on Nov. 29, 2018.
Her torso was found Dec. 2 in the basement of Chance's Grand Rapids rental home, according to court documents. While other remains haven't been found, police said blood was found on stairs, in Chance's bathtub and on his pants, and human tissue was discovered in his kitchen sink.
A judge last month ruled that photos of Young's mutilated body can be used as evidence in the trial, although defense attorneys argued the images have no real value and would be used only to sway the jury against Chance.
Other evidence in the case, according to WOOD-TV, includes a receipt police say shows Chance purchased ammonia and beer at the same liquor store after Young went missing, and surveillance video that allegedly shows Chance dumping something into a trash can during his visit. When detectives sifted through the trash, they recovered Young's purse.
Jury selection in Kent County court began immediately after the plea deal was turned down.
WOOD-TV reported the jury chosen early Monday afternoon includes 11 women and three men. They are expected to begin heating testimony Tuesday morning.
Separately, Chance's parents are charged with perjury and accessories after the fact.
