Man pleads guilty to involuntary manslaughter

Jesse Bruce, 25, pleaded guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in 6th District Court in Pocatello Monday.

Bruce was initially charged with second degree murder in the June 5th stabbing death of Lric Elkins at 139 North Grant.

Bannock County Deputy Prosecutor Zachary Parris said involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum 10 year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine. Bruce will be sentenced December 21st.

Parris welcomed the plea agreement, He said it has been a difficult case to prosecute, primarily because witnesses have been reluctant to come forward.

But investigation of the murder is still underway and other persons may yet be charged, he said. Evidence is being processed and has been sent to state labs for testing.