Man accused of murdering a 17-year-old at a Colorado Springs Walgreens set to go to trial
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo, (KRDO) -- The man accused of murdering a 17-year-old at a Colorado Springs Walgreens is set to go to trial.
Joshua Johnson, 28, is accused of killing 17-year-old Riley Whitelaw in a back room of a Colorado Springs Walgreens in June.
According to court documents previously obtained by 13 Investigates, Johnson and the victim were coworkers.
Whitelaw had previously complained about his behavior towards her and requested to work a different schedule than him because he made her feel uncomfortable.
Court testimony by multiple Colorado Springs Police detectives have called into question if any safeguards were in place to prevent Riley's death.
Detective Mike Lee told court that Johnson had access the locker combinations of Riley and her boyfriend, who was also a Walgreens employee at the time. The lockers were located in the break room, where Whitelaw's body was found that evening.
Inside Johnson's locker, detectives say they found the addresses, phone numbers and even social security numbers of Whitelaw and her boyfriend. Detectives did not elaborate on how the accused murderer was able to locate that information.
When Johnson was arrested on the morning of June 12, detectives say he told them he, "had a small crush on Riley, but it didn't go anywhere."
13 Investigates reached out to Walgreens for comment regarding these details discussed in court. They issued this statement saying:
"We are deeply saddened and horrified by this crime, and continue to extend our condolences, thoughts and prayers to Riley's family and loved ones. We have been working closely with authorities in their investigation, conducting a thorough internal review and supporting our team members during this very difficult time. The safety of our customers and team members is our highest priority, and we take this obligation very seriously."
-- Walgreens Spokesperson
Wednesday, it was determined there was enough evidence to move forward with a trial. Johnson is set to return to court on November 15 for his arraignment. At this time, he will have the chance to plead either guilty or not guilty.
Previous coverage here:
Detectives say man charged is ‘the only one’ who could’ve killed teen in Walgreens stabbing
Docs: Teen asked not to work with coworker facing charges for her murder at Walgreens
Autopsy: Teen stabbed more than 40 times in attack, Walgreens coworker in custody
