Millionaire murders ex-wife then shoots divorce judge
A millionaire who murdered his wife and shot the judge who heard their bitter divorce case agreed a plea bargain today rather than face trial.
American Darren Mack, aged 46, pleaded guilty to murder and entered a special plea to a charge of attempted murder as his case was about to begin.
Mack stabbed his estranged wife Charla at their house in Reno, Nevada, then drove to a city centre car park and shot Family Court Judge Chuck Weller through the third-floor window of the judge’s chambers. The judge survived.
Mack admitted shooting Weller, but entered a plea under which a defendant agrees there is enough evidence for a conviction without admitting guilt.
“I do understand right now in my state of mind that shooting at the judiciary is not a proper form of political redress,” Mack said.
He will be sentenced in January.
In exchange for the admissions, prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence of life in prison with possible parole after 20 years. If Mack had been convicted by a jury he would have served life with no chance of parole.
Mack also faces up to 20 years on the attempted murder charge.
Prosecutor Robert Daskas noted that Mack’s agreement waived his right to appeal.
Charla Mack’s mother, Soorya Townley, said she was pleased with the outcome. She called Mack a “sociopath” who hypnotised himself into believing he’s justified and he’s the victim.“
The murder came after Mrs Mack filed for divorce in 2005. Mack ignored Judge Weller’s order to pay her $10,000 a month temporary alimony.
The judge found him in contempt of court, and Mack filed for bankruptcy to avoid paying, but Mack continued his lavish lifestyle, taking frequent holidays with girlfriends.
