Trial date set in girl's slaying

WEST JORDAN — A March 2008 trial date has been set for a young man accused of killing and then sexually assaulting his girlfriend at a party.

During a brief court appearance in 3rd District Court on Thursday, Parley Jeffs Dutson, 19, was ordered to stand trial for first-degree felony murder and aggravated sexual assault beginning March 11.

Dutson is accused in the April shooting death of 15-year-old Kara Hopkins. Police said that during a party, Dutson was high from hallucinogenic mushrooms and marijuana. He demanded sex from Hopkins, who refused. Witnesses testified at his preliminary hearing that Dutson shot Hopkins in the back of the head as she walked away from him.