Admitted killer wants new lawyer
BY JOHN ZICK THE LEADER

BATH — A Yates County man who pleaded guilty to killing a Bath woman in 2004 asked a Steuben County Court judge Monday for a new attorney in his quest to have his judgment vacated.

Shawn Campbell, 29, appeared briefly in court Monday without an attorney. Campbell was formerly represented by James Ferratella.

During his appearance, Campbell requested a new court-appointed attorney, saying he can’t afford to hire a lawyer on his own. Judge Joseph Latham said Campbell is likely entitled to a courtappointed attorney.

Campbell pleaded guilty in October 2005 to killing Rhonda Bilby, 48, outside her Bath home in September 2004. The handyman hit Bilby twice with a wrench, killing her.

Within weeks of pleading guilty, Campbell asked Latham to throw out his guilty plea, saying he was coerced and tricked into admitting guilt. In March,

Latham denied Campbell’s request to withdraw his plea, sentencing him to 25 years to life in prison for the murder. He is serving his sentence in Wende Correctional Facility in Laden.

Campbell’s next court appearance was scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Jan. 8.