(WKYT) – Federal prosecutors say they support a motion filed by Brian Epperson’s defense attorney to withdraw from his case, citing the actions of Kaylieb Thompson, the fiancé of one of the alleged victims.
Epperson faces a federal drug distribution charge in connection with the deaths of Reacheal Dawson and another woman.
Epperson’s defense attorney, Rachel Yavelak, filed a motion earlier this month to end her representation of Epperson.
READ THE MOTION BELOW
The motion cited the actions of Thompson, Dawson’s fiancé.
In a response filed today, prosecutors wrote: “While the United States certainly understands Thompson’s desire to seek justice for the crime… Thompson is obstructing the administration of justice with his actions.”
Prosecutors added: “The government intends to protect Epperson’s right to a fair trial, unobstructed by Thompson’s antics or threats, and to protect its witnesses from any threats or intimidation by Thompson.”
The court motion points to social media posts from Thompson, as well as a truck billboard he created, as part of his effort to seek justice against Epperson.
Thompson pleaded guilty earlier this year to terroristic threatening charges after police said he made threats against officers and Epperson.
Epperson’s trial is expected to begin Aug. 3.