DARLINGTON, SC (WBTW) – The man accused of killing a 9-year-old girl and the child’s grandmother in 2016 was denied bond Thursday in Darlington County.
Judge Thomas Russo denied the bond for Cephas Cowick, citing the severity of the crime he’s charged with and also that he is a flight risk.
Cowick and his wife, Katherine are both charged with the murders of Deziyah Davis, 9, and her grandmother, 52-year-old Denise Couplin, both of Darlington. Both victims were found dead in a home off Highway 151 near the Darlington Dragway on July 17, 2016.
Court documents confirm Cephas Cowick could face the death penalty for the murders.
Both families were visibly upset in the courtroom Thursday. Deputy Solicitor Kenard Redmond argued to keep Cephas Cowick in jail.
He argued Cowick might try to run and could be in danger if gets out.
“The seriousness of the crime in this situation the state contends would in my mind eliminate any right to this defendant to have a bond,” said Redmond. “There are some very raw feelings regarding the nature of what transpired at Denise Coplin’s house.”
Prosecutors allege Cowick shot and killed Denise Coplin and her 9-year-old granddaughter Deziyah Davis last July.
His wife, Katherine Cowick was in court last week and was granted a $200,000 bond for the murder charge, but as of Thursday, she had not posted bond.
“I don’t know if the family wants to speak at this time, in all honesty, I think last week was somewhat traumatic,” said Redmond.
Cephas Cowick’s attorney asked Judge Thomas Russo to consider a $100,000 bond.
“The possibility of being put to death. I think that raises the risk of flight beyond the capabilities that we have to secure someone presence for trial… I’m going to respectfully deny the motion for bond,” said Russo.
Cowick’s attorney made 12 motions to the court. Two asked a Judge if Cowick could avoid wearing jail jumpers and limited communication.
“Any communication that they want to have with Mr. Cowick should come with his attorney, said Shane Goranson.
Both Katherine and Cephas Cowick are still in jail. Redmond says there is no set date on when they will be back in court.