New Trial Date for Man Accused of Murdering an Ole Miss Student that is Still Missing

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According to WJTV, a new trial date has been scheduled for Sheldon Timothy Herrington, Jr., the man accused in the disappearance of Jimmie “Jay” Lee, a still-missing Ole Miss student.

Sheldon Timothy Herrington, Jr.Photo byWJTV

The Oxford Eagle has reported that Herrington's trial will commence on December 2, 2024. The jury for the trial will be selected from a different county and will be sequestered during proceedings. This decision follows a motion by prosecutors and defense attorneys to seal the case against Herrington due to extensive pretrial publicity, as confirmed by the Lafayette County Circuit Court.

Jimmie “Jay” Lee, 20, was last seen in early July 2022 at an apartment complex in Oxford, Mississippi. Lee, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ community in Oxford, sparked widespread concern following his disappearance. Herrington was arrested two weeks after Lee vanished and was subsequently indicted for capital murder in March 2023. He has been out on a $250,000 bond since December 2022.

Originally scheduled for October 15, 2024, Herrington’s trial date has now been moved to December 2, 2024. Authorities revealed that Herrington's cellphone records indicated communications with Lee on the morning of his disappearance. Additionally, investigators found internet searches on Herrington's devices related to international travel and inquiries such as “how long it takes to strangle someone,” shortly after Lee reportedly informed Herrington of his plans to visit the apartment.

Jimmie LeePhoto byWJTV

Despite extensive search efforts, Lee's body has not been located. Prosecutors believe it may be located in Lafayette or Grenada County.

Anyone with information pertinent to the case is urged to contact the Oxford Police Department at 662-232-2400 or Crime Stoppers at 662-234-8477.