Teen charged in Bailey murder takes plea deal

One of three suspects charged in the killing of University at Albany student Richard Bailey reached a plea deal earlier this month.
By agreeing to a plea deal, King Modest faces 10 years in prison for attempted first-degree robbery, according to a report by the Times Union. He was originally charged with second-degree murder, and if he had been convicted, would have faced 25 years to life.
As part of the deal, Modest has agreed to take the stand against his two former codefendants, Devon Callicutt and Ricardo Caldwell, both 19.
The murder, which took place on Oct. 20, 2008 at South Lake Avenue and Yates Street while Bailey was walking home from a local bar, is said to have been a botched robbery attempt.
Bailey, a 22-year-old sociology major and criminal justice minor, had aspirations of becoming a police officer like his father.
UAlbany released the following statement through spokesman Karl Luntta: “As always, our thoughts are with the Bailey family. We’re pleased to see that the case is progressing. We have confidence in the legal system to bring this to a full resolution.”
Bailey’s parents and District Attorney David Soares could not be reached for comment.
Detective James Miller of the Albany Police Department said the department is withholding any comments until the cases are final.
Michael McDermott, Modest’s attorney, said his client is “remorseful,” which prompted his guilty plea. “[Modest] had a promising future. He made a bad decision that resulted in tragedy and just wants to make amends.”
Modest was an honor student at Albany High School.
Callicutt is suspected to be the shooter but has claimed his innocence to date.
Calls to Callicutt’s attorney, Cheryl Coleman, were not returned.
According to the Times Union report, Modest is expected to be sentenced on March 26.