Death penalty trial begins Monday in Banks Co.

HOMER - Three people go on trial in Homer Monday for the robbery-murder of a 64 year old man 16 months ago.

The state is seeking the death penalty against Roderick Cooper, 23; Carla Joan Simmons, 24, Commerce; and Torrell McGarrett Young, 34.

Paul Rucker was killed in September 2005.

His body was found in his home on Georgia 326 in Banks County.

A fourth person charged in the case - Donald Murphy Jr., 21, Arcade - has pleaded guilty and is expected to testify against the others.

Authorities said at the time of the incident they believed Rucker was the victim of a home invasion.