FAYETTEVILLE — 31-year-old man convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend in 2008 is appealing his death sentence, saying he received ineffective counsel.
The Northwest Arkansas Times reports that Zachariah Marcyniuk (MAR’-se-nick) says in a filing in Washington County Circuit Court that he deserves a new trial or to have his death sentence vacated and another sentencing hearing. A jury convicted him in the death of 24-year-old Katie Wood.
He contends his attorneys did not ask prospective jurors if they would automatically vote to impose the death penalty upon a conviction, no matter the circumstances. He also says his attorneys did not adequately investigate or call witnesses and failed to use juror questionnaires, adequately prepare witnesses or request a change of venue.
Prosecuting Attorney John Threet says he’s prepared to dispute Marcyniuk’s allegations.