Singleton remains in Pike County Jail
Published 8:52 pm Monday, January 19, 2009
Major Wilbur Singleton remains in the Pike County Jail, after he turned himself into law enforcement last weekend, said Pike County District Attorney’s Chief Investigator Dwight Holley.
Singleton, who faces two charges of assault first degree and one count of failure to aid the injured, is held on a $150,000 bond, after he allegedly left the scene of a U.S. 231 wreck that critically injured two.
Holley said Singleton was taken to the emergency room upon arrival, where he was examined and released back to law enforcement Saturday.
“He had some abrasions and bruises, but they were just minor injuries,” Holley said.
Holley said the assault charges stem from Singleton using his vehicle as a weapon and greatly injuring Henry Lee Whitaker and his wife Joann.
“He seriously injured two individuals, and if they had not been treated quickly, there’s a great chance they might not have survived.”
But, according to the Whitacker’s niece, Jessica Hipps, the couple may be released from the hospital later today or Wednesday.
“They are in good spirits and thankful to be alive,” Hipps said.
Since Singleton has two prior felony convictions, his sentencing will be more severe if he is convicted.
In September of 2001, Singleton pleaded guilty to distribution of marijuana and distribution of cocaine. Holley said he also pleaded in 2007 to sexual misconduct, which is a misdemeanor.
Singleton has the right to plead guilty at any time, but Holley said he doesn’t anticipate he will.
“With those prior convictions, I can’t see him pleading right now,” Holley said. “I think he will go before a grand jury and then go forth if there is an indictment.”
No other arrests have come forth from this instance yet, but Holley said the DA’s office is continuing to investigate and will prosecute persons who may have assisted in harboring Singleton.