A shocking twist emerged in the case of a West Virginia man accused of killing his 3-month-old daughter. Shannon Overstreet, currently in jail awaiting trial, reportedly plans to marry next month on Valentine's Day.
However, prosecutors are trying to block the wedding, fearing it could jeopardize their case due to spousal immunity laws.
Little Angel Nichole Overstreet disappeared in 2021 and is presumed dead. Her father, Overstreet, faces charges of murder, concealment of a body, and child abuse. He pleads not guilty, but authorities allege he killed the infant and disposed of her body in Kentucky.
The potential snag arose from recorded jailhouse phone calls where Overstreet discussed marrying his fiancée. This woman, whom prosecutors intend to call as a witness, could become "unavailable" to testify if they tie the knot.
Prosecutor Philip Morrison argues that although he doesn't suspect Overstreet's sole motive is to silence the witness, the marriage would create legal hurdles. Spousal privilege in West Virginia restricts what spouses can be compelled to testify about against each other.
"I don't want to stand in the way of love," Morrison stated in court, "but if they get married, I can't use her as a witness."
Judge Paul T. Farrell, however, expressed doubts about his authority to prevent the wedding. He requested legal precedent for the prosecution's request, emphasizing, "I don't have any power to stop a wedding."
The issue remains unresolved, with another court date set for January 23rd. Meanwhile, Overstreet, already serving a 10-year sentence for a separate violent incident, waits behind bars.
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