HOUSTON, Texas — After prosecutors presented newly tested evidence, a Harris County grand jury indicted Andre Jackson for murder in the death of 11-year-old Josue Flores, who was stabbed 20 times to death in 2016 as he walked home from school.
“We have always said we will follow the evidence, and sometimes a case grows stronger with time, Ogg said. “We look forward to presenting all the evidence at trial and finally delivering justice for Josue, his family and the community.”
As grand jury proceedings are secret, Ogg said she was prohibited by law from discussing details regarding the newly tested evidence.
Ogg was joined at a news conference by Turner, City Councilwoman Karla Cisneros and Executive Assistant Police Chief Troy Finner.
“The city has always remained focused on justice for Josue Flores. I want to thank District Attorney Kim Ogg and the prosecutors who tirelessly worked this case,” Turner said. “I want to thank members of the grand jury, who listened and carefully weighed new evidence presented, and this morning, returned an indictment.”
“Police Chief Art Acevedo and HPD investigators also deserve credit for staying focused on identifying the main suspect in the Josue Flores murder,” Turner continued. “To the family, I want you to know we will remain by your side every step of the way – until this journey ends in justice for Josue Flores.”
Statement from Chief @ArtAcevedo on update in Josue Flores investigation: #hounews pic.twitter.com/n66yg1vrxy
— Houston Police (@houstonpolice) June 18, 2019
The indictment handed down Tuesday marks the second time Jackson has been charged with murdering Josue.
Prosecutors asked that murder charge indictment against Jackson be dismissed in 2017 until and if additional evidence was found. The judge granted that dismissal.
If prosecutors had proceeded to trial at that time, and Jackson had been found not guilty, double jeopardy would have prevented this charge.
However, by dismissing the case against Jackson at that time, they reserved the right to charge him again should additional evidence be discovered.
If convicted, Jackson, 30, faces five to 99 years in prison, or life. He was arrested Tuesday by Houston Police.
A motive for the crime remains unknown. Jackson has previously said he has PTSD.
He told KHOU in 2017, “I did not kill Josue. I’m not his killer. I would never attack a child. I would never kill anyone.”
