BROOMFIELD, Colo. -- Prosecutors have filed two counts of murder against a Broomfield man accused of bludgeoning his 4-year old nephew to death.
Judge Mark Warner told 25-year old Emanuel Doll that both counts, first-degree murder after deliberation and first-degree murder by a person in a position of trust, could carry a life sentence without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty.
Doll showed no emotion when the judge mentioned the death penalty.
The defendant didn't say a word. He kept his head bowed and stared at the conference table.
Doll's brother, Joseph, attended the hearing but declined comment afterward.
Details of the murder are still secret. The affidavit remains sealed, but Judge Warner set Friday, May 12, as the next hearing date, when he will consider a motion to unseal the document or release part of it.
Last week, police said Doll was suspected of killing a 4-year-old family member.
Neighbors say the 4-year old was Doll's nephew.
Police aren't talking about a weapon or a motive, but radio communications indicate that Doll used an ax.
The defendant is still being held without bond.
Doll's preliminary hearing has been set for July 14, at 9 a.m.
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