07/01/08

In a surprise move yesterday - 32-year old John Henry McElhiney of Hailey pled guilty to first degree murder.

In January of this year, a grand jury found McElhiney guilty of first degree murder in the death of 18 year old Dale Miller, whose body was found in a barrel in a garage in Twin Falls last September.

McElhiney's trial was originally scheduled for July 21st.

In exchange for pleading guilty, McElhiney will receive 22 years in prison for the fixed portion of his sentence.

His sentencing is now set for 1:30 pm on Monday September 15th.