Towne East shooting suspect wants to withdraw plea, victim’s family frustrated

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to clarify the next court proceedings in the case.

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – The Wichita teen who is accused of shooting another teen at Towne East Square Mall in 2022 wants to withdraw his plea.

In July, Te’bryis Robinson pleaded no contest to second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and aggravated battery.

Less than a minute after the judge began court proceedings, Robinson’s representation said he wants to withdraw his plea, against the advice of his lawyers. Withdrawing his plea means that Robinson will forfeit all his current attorneys and be appointed a public defender. Before Robinson can request to withdraw his plea, a hearing must be scheduled before a judge with his new attorneys.

The shooting happened on March 18, 2022, when Robinson was 16. According to the Wichita Police Department, it began with a fight related to an ongoing dispute. During the fight, Robinson allegedly pulled out a gun and shot multiple rounds, striking 14-year-old TrenJ’vious Hutton. Despite attempts by witnesses to save his life, TrenJ’vious died at the scene.

Sedgwick County 911 took 168 calls in less than 10 minutes after the shooting.

TrenJ’vious’ family was in the courtroom on Monday, ready to share how his death had changed their lives during their witness statements. They are frustrated that they didn’t get a chance to speak about their loved one’s death.

“We just hope that we get justice, we hope that they give him the time that he deserve because 20 years? Tubby (TrenJ’vious) don’t get to come back after 20 years,” said Trentasia Hutton, TrenJ’vious’ sister.

“Losing one kid is like losing all your kids … you don’t know if you’ve never had a kid who’s been killed by gun violence,” said Jeannette Dees, TrenJ’vious’ mother.

Trentasia said the family will never be entirely at peace, but they are ready to leave court and have closure, at least within the legal system.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.