Jamaal Mellish was ordered to remain in the Morris County Jail earlier this week. During his hearing, Sussex County Prosecutors revealed more information about how he allegedly murdered fellow Fort Drum soldier 20 year old Hayden Harris in Byram during the early morning hours of December 19th. Assistant Prosecutor Sahil Kabse told Judge Louis Sceusi what was supposed to be a vehicle exchange at the fort in upstate New York. Turned into a kidnapping and murder. Mellish allegedly pulled a hand gun on Harris outside of the fort. Then told his girlfriend's 16 year old brother to hold the pistol to the head of Harris. Then he bound and gagged Harris in the back seat of his truck. After driving over 4 hours south to Byram Township, Mellish then allegedly shot Harris in the head. Mellish and his girlfriend's brother then attempted to hide the body of in the woods off Ross Road under some snow. So far no motive for the killing has been discussed in court. Ed Weinstock, Mellish's attorney told Judge Sceusi his client is innocent. Questioning the strength of the prosecution's case because so far there is no gun or forensic evidence connecting Mellish to the crime. Weinstock went on to say the entire prosecution is based on statements from a juvenile who is "less than credible."
Source: New Jersey Herald