NLR murder suspect pleads innocent

— A North Little Rock man who police say fatally stabbed a woman in his apartment has entered an innocent plea.

Jeffrey Averett, 50, made an initial appearance by video in North Little Rock District Court after his arrest Tuesday in the death of 50-year-old Joann Sessler.

Sessler suffered multiple stab wounds in the attack at 116 Latona Lane. Authorities have said Averett was charged after he walked into a police station and asked to see a detective because “he thought he might have killed somebody.”

Averett spoke only briefly during the hearing Thursday morning before Judge Jim Hamilton, acknowledging he understood the charge against him and advising he didn't have any questions for the court.

Hamilton also appointed a public defender for Averett and ordered he remain in jail with no bail set. The public defender said officials may ask for bail at a later hearing.

Averett faces a charge of first-degree murder.

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Pulaski County jail

Jeffrey Averett

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