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Judge says suspect in slaying of NoDa sandwich shop will remain in jail

CHARLOTTE — One of two suspects in the murder of a beloved NoDa sandwich shop owner appeared in court Thursday for a bond hearing.

The murder of Scott Brooks in December of 2019 shook the community. He was opening up his restaurant, Brooks’ Sandwich House, before sunrise when two men ambushed, robbed and shot him.

Police arrested the first suspect, Terry Conner, three months later. They also charged a second suspect, Steven Staples.

A judge decided that Conner will stay in jail without bond at the 15-minute hearing.

Family and friends of Scott Brooks were in the courtroom.

Connor’s attorney Ken Snow told the judge there were no facts in the case yet – only allegations.

There was no DNA or other physical evidence connecting Conner with Scott Brooks’ murder, the attorney said.

There is only one statement from someone.

Prosecutor Brett Few said that isn’t enough to release a man who has a long history of violent crime.

Conner is also charged with two other murders.

The judge agreed with the prosecutor.

Scott Brooks’ brother David Brooks said the judge did the right thing.

“It’s very difficult,” Brooks said. “It’s very difficult to put into words my feelings as opposed to my sister-in-law’s feelings. But you have to take everything in respect, and you have to respect the system, and you have to live with the system. And you have to direct it as good as you possibly can with, not only your own emotions, but with the way you live your daily life. And I think that after what we’ve heard today, hopefully when this guy goes to trial, it’s gonna be the same thing. And we’ve got the evidence to prove that, and I think the state is doing a wonderful job and the police department.”

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