Teen Charged In Death Of James McGrath Turns Down Plea Deal: Report

SHELTON, CT — A Milford teen accused of fatally stabbing James McGrath, 17, outside a party in Shelton last year rejected a plea deal this week that would have called for him to serve 40 years in prison, according to a new report.

The Connecticut Post reports Raul Valle, 18, turned down the plea offer during a court appearance Thursday and did not make a counter-offer. Over 20 of McGrath's friends and family, including his parents and sister, were also present for Valle's court date.

A judge said the case would be put on the trial list, however the timeline may be modified to avoid disturbing the studies of any witnesses who may be college students, the Connecticut Post reports. Valle's lawyer told the paper his client is innocent and wanted a trial.

According to an arrest warrant application, McGrath, a Shelton resident and student at Fairfield College Preparatory School, was stabbed outside a house party with over 50 teens in attendance on Laurel Glen Drive late on May 14, 2022.

See also: Families Sue Shelton Parents Accused Of Hosting Underage Party: Report

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• St. Joseph Student Accused Of Fatally Stabbing James McGrath, 17

Valle, who was 16 at the time of his arrest and a student at St. Joseph High School in Trumbull, is accused of fatally stabbing McGrath. He was arrested days after the incident and later released after posting a $2 million bond.

He has been charged with murder and three counts of first-degree assault, according to police.

Read the full Connecticut Post story here.