Michael Whitesell has pleaded guilty to the spring 2010 beating of a mentally disabled man outside a Winfield bar.
Sentencing in the case is set for 1:30 p.m., March 7 at the Cowley County Courthouse.
Chris Minor – the victim in the case – was beaten outside Hot Shotz Bar in March and required hospitalization. Whitesell pleaded as charged to a count of aggravated battery.
Whitesell had pleaded not guilty in the case originally, but changed his mind Monday, just one day before his trial was to begin.
Though there was no reduction in the charge against him, it can sometimes be an advantage at sentencing for defendants who proclaim their guilt.
