Fox 4 KC
February 5, 2015
A man faces second degree murder charges after he allegedly beat his girlfriend to death over the weekend in St. Joseph.
According to court documents, James Earl Eackles, 45, is accused of beating his long-time live-in girlfriend to death at their home in St. Joe. Police said they received a 911 call over the weekend, regarding a possible injured person at a residence located at 2220 S. 15th Street. Once officers arrived at the scene they located a deceased Caucasian woman, later identified as the girlfriend of Eackles.
Police say Eackles admitted to striking the victim several time. Officers reported the victim had significant injuries to both her face and body, which resulted in her death. The suspect and victim reportedly lived together for several years prior to this incident.
According to the probable cause statement, Eackles has prior convictions for DWI, drug possession and burglary and is an acknowledged drug user.