Mack Wood, Jr. Sentenced to Life in Prison for Role in Murder of His Father

Mack Wood, Jr. 49, of Richmond, pled guilty Monday to capital murder for his role in the death of his father, Mack Leon Wood, 87, in October 2012, according to a news release from the county. Arlington Circuit Court Judge Daniel Fiore II sentenced him to life in prison.

“You are a murderer, Mr. Wood,” the Washington Post reported Fiore as saying.

Theophani K. Stamos, Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney and M. Douglas Scott, Arlington County’s Chief of Police made the announcement following the court appearance.

On Oct. 13, 2012, Mack Wood, 87, of Arlington, was murdered inside his residence in the 3700 block of N. Wakefield St. After a thorough review of evidence, forensic examination, consultation with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and an extensive investigation, three suspects were identified and apprehended without incident. In addition to Wood, Jr., Jean Caleb Pierre, 32, and Sapien Edmonds, 29, both of Henrico, were also charged with murder.

The Washington Post reported that Wood, Jr. said in the courtroom Monday that he was having money problems and that his father wouldn’t help him.

Following the plea agreement, Commonwealth’s Attorney Stamos said: “We are extremely satisfied with the outcome of this case and that the absolute right conclusion was reached. Our prayers go out to the victim’s family and hope they will find some comfort in knowing those responsible for his death were held accountable by this community.”

Arlington County Deputy Chief Daniel J. Murray, Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division added: “The Homicide Robbery Unit’s efforts and a strong partnership with the Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office have resulted in three dangerous criminals being removed from the streets.”

Detective P. Mulvaney was the lead detective and the case was prosecuted by Deputy Commonwealth Attorney Andy Parker and Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Jay Burkholder, according to the news release.

PHOTO courtesy of Arlington County Police Department