Public defender conducts independent investigation in shooting case

Legal proceedings against a suspect accused of killing a man last year in Sturgis will continue indefinitely, as a new public defender conducts an independent investigation into the December shooting.

Cameron Hope, 32, was arrested Feb. 14 in Gary, Ind., Sturgis police said. He is charged with open murder, using a firearm during a felony and possession of a firearm by a felon in connection to the Dec. 29 shooting of 31-year-old Jeremy Lampeart.

Lampaert was found shot in the parking lot of the Country Hearth on South Centreville Road near Fawn River Road.

During a March 14 preliminary exam, public defender Rhonda Ives said she wanted to conduct an independent investigation of the incident.

Hope remains in the St. Joseph County Jail, where he is being held without bond.