Nodine to plead guilty to harassment

BAY MINETTE, Ala. (WALA) - Friday there an unexpected turn in the Steve Nodine murder case. Late on Friday afternoon, prosecutors and defense attorneys reached a plea deal.

The former Mobile County Commissioner was supposed to go on trial Monday for the death of Angel Downs. Instead, it's now "case closed".

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Nodine will not be re-tried for murder and stalking.

"When I looked at the evidence, I concluded it would be very difficult to persuade a jury beyond a reasonable doubt that a murder took place. We negotiated a settlement that we think is appropriate," said Special Prosecutor David Whetstone.

The state contacted Nodine's defense team about three weeks ago to negotiate.

 Nodine pleaded guilty to domestic violence third, or harassment and a perjury charge. Special Prosecutor David Whetstone simply said he made the decision not to go to Dothan.

"Having forensics not being sure about who pulled the trigger certainly was a difficulty," said Whetstone.

Nodine's defense team, John Beck and Pascal Bruijn called it a major win for Nodine.

"We believe the facts were on our side and believe our client did not shoot Angel Downs, but you never want to run the risk of putting your fate in a jury of 12," said Pascal Bruijn.

"This is clearly a victory for Stephen Nodine, this is what we alleged all along from day one," said John Beck.

None of Angel Downs' family was present at the hearing. Nodine's defense said at sentencing, they will go for time served since Nodine served time in federal prison for a gun charge. Sentencing is scheduled for October.