Defense asks for extension in Carrie Jones trial

HARTINGTON – The defense lawyer of a Laurel woman accused of murder asked for some more time to prepare the case for trial.

Doug Stratton, Norfolk, made the request for a continuance on behalf of Carrie Jones, accused of the murder of Gene Twiford, tampering with evidence and being an accessory to a felony. The matter came on the docket for a pre-trial conference in Cedar County District Court Monday morning.

Jason Jones, is considered the principal offender, accused of the murder of Gene Twiford, Janet Twiford, Dana Twiford and Michele Shankles-Ebeling.

However, under Nebraska statutes, Carrie Jones can be found guilty as well if she aided and encouraged him to carry out the killing, according to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

The quadruple murder occurred two years ago, on Aug. 4, 2022, in Laurel.

First responders were called to Shankles-Ebeling’s home first at about 3 a.m. that day to the report of an explosion and house fire. Several hours later, local law enforcement on scene notified smoke coming from the Twiford home just a few blocks away.

All of the victims were found to have gunshot wounds.

Jason Jones was apprehended at his home the morning after the murders. He was found with severe burns over his body and was treated at a Lincoln hospital for several weeks before being released to the Neb. Department of Corrections.

Carrie Jones was arrested several months later, in December 2022.

Jason Jones’ trial is set to start Sept. 9. It was moved to Dakota County due to extensive media coverage.

Stratton said information that comes to light during Jason Jones’ trial next month will help mold the defense in Carrie Jones’ case and help him decide which witnesses may need to be deposed.

Stratton indicated it’s likely a change of venue and other motions will be filed prior to the next court date set for Monday, Nov. 25.

Carrie Jones appeared by videoconference Monday from the Boone County Jail as did Prosecutor Corey O’Brien from the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office. Stratton, Judge Bryan Meismer and other court personnel appeared personally in Cedar County District Courtroom. The hearing was attended by a few of the victims’ family members as well as a handful of media representatives.

The hearing lasted less than 10 minutes.