Judge hears defense’s case to dismiss murder charges against Barry Morphew

CAÑON CITY, Colo. (KRDO) -- Judge Ramsey Lama was scheduled to hear from seven witnesses Friday as part of an effort to dismiss charges against Barry Morphew.

Morphew is accused of murdering his wife, Suzanne, in 2020. Though her body has never been found, the Salida woman was reported missing on Mother's Day.

Morphew was arrested nearly a year later, charged with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a dangerous weapon, and attempt to influence a public servant. If convicted on his murder charge, he'll be sentenced to life in prison.

Morphew's attorneys are now arguing that he should've never been charged because one of the main investigators on the case, CBI Agent Joe Cahill, said that he believed Morphew was arrested too early, calling the timing of his arrest "the worst decision you can make."

On the stand Friday, Cahill testified to the fact that he felt the arrest was premature. When asked by the defense about what's changed between then and now, he said he didn't believe anything has changed, stating there's still no blood or body in the case.

The hearing is still taking place in a Fremont County courtroom, check back for updates.