COLUMBUS – Funeral arrangements have been announced for two Ohio police officers shot to death over the weekend.
Meanwhile, a Cleveland-area man who played a key role in their murders is due in court.
Services for Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli
Friday, Feb. 16
St. Paul the Apostle Parish, 313 N. State St.
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 – Public viewing(Westerville Police request arrivals no earlier than 9:30 a.m.)
12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m. – Fraternal Order of Police service
1:00 p.m. Funeral service (City of Westerville will livestream the service)
-Source: Fraternal Order of Police/City of Westerville
Westerville Police Chief Joe Morbitzer said Tuesday that plans have been made for Joering’s police dog to remain with his widow and daughters.
Quentin Smith, 30, faces two preliminary charges of aggravated murder. He was also shot and is hospitalized. He hasn’t had a hearing yet and it’s unclear if an attorney has been appointed.
However, a judge plans to consider bond for a man accused of providing the gun used in the shooting.
Federal prosecutors say 30-year-old Gerald Lawson, of Willoughby Heights, bought the handgun for Smith last summer.
A criminal complaint filed against Lawson in federal court says Smith gave Lawson the money to buy the gun along with $100 for completing the transaction, which was carried out in Broadview Heights.
Lawson is due in federal court on Wednesday where prosecutors are expected to argue against granting him bond.
Court records do not list an attorney for Lawson. He has not yet been required to enter a plea.
As a felon, previously convicted of burglary, Smith was prevented from having a weapon.