Man sentenced to life in prison in triple murder asks for resentencing

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A hearing was held Thursday morning for a Columbia man who was sentenced for a triple murder more than 20 years ago.

Deandra Buchanan, 51, was found guilty by a jury in 2002 on three counts of first-degree murder. He was initially sentenced to death but was resentenced to life in prison without parole in 2003. Buchanan was not present for the resentencing hearing.

The defense is wanting a new hearing where a judge sentences him to life in prison without parole and this would allow them to enter a new appeal. 

 The prosecution argues that the challenge is not timely, and the previous judgment was final.

Buchanan appeared for a hearing in person on Thursday. The judge told both sides to summarize their positions, and they will reconvene June 6.

Buchanan is being held at Jefferson City Correctional Center.