Accused trigger man in murder-for-hire plot pleads guilty to lesser charge

(WAFB) - The man accused of pulling the trigger in a murder-for-hire plot back in 2015 is reportedly taking a plea agreement from prosecutors in exchange for testifying against his co-defendants and for a reduced charge.

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Tyler Ashpaugh was initially charged with first degree murder after being accused of shooting and killing Tahereh Ghassemi. He was reportedly hired to do this by Tahereh's ex-husband, Hamid Ghassemi.

On Thursday, July 12, Ashpaugh entered a guilty plea to the charge of manslaughter, which carries a 40-year sentence if he's convicted. Ashpaugh is expected to testify against his co-defendants, Hamid Ghassemi, Daniel Richter, and Skylar Williams.

Hamid is expected in court July 18 for a motions hearing. Richter, meanwhile, is expected in court October 22 for trial, while Williams is scheduled for trial August 27. All three are facing charges of first degree murder.

Ashpaugh maintains Tahereh was dead from being injected with an Epipen before he reportedly shot her in the head multiple times. Ashpaugh's detailed plea agreement is below.