PHOENIX (AP) – A landscaper who is the suspect in a series of Phoenix freeway shootings told a judge Saturday that authorities have “the wrong guy” and he hasn’t even been in possession of a gun for two months.
Leslie Allen Merritt Jr., 21, was charged with counts including aggravated assault, criminal damage, disorderly conduct, carrying out a drive-by shooting and intentional acts of terrorism. In a brief court appearance, the prosecutor said he presents a danger to the community after drivers spent the last three weeks on edge.
“The suspect presents a dramatic and profound threat to the community,” the prosecutor said.
Judge Lisa Roberts set bail at $1 million, and Merritt asked to speak to the court.
“All I have to say is I’m the wrong guy. I tried telling the detectives that. My gun’s been in the pawn shop the last two months. I haven’t even had access to a weapon,” he said.