Accused Murderer Marcus Allen Spurns Plea, Heads to Trial in Baytown Slaying

In a dramatic courtroom development, a Bay City man accused of a fatal shooting has firmly rejected a plea agreement that could have significantly reduced his prison sentence, ensuring a high-stakes murder trial will proceed. Marcus Dejuan Allen, 29, now faces the full weight of a murder charge in connection with the tragic death of 34-year-old Brandon Green.

The incident, which occurred in June 2024 in Baytown, saw Green fatally shot multiple times.

Authorities allege Allen was responsible. During a recent court appearance before Bay County Circuit Judge Andre Borrello, Allen was presented with a crucial choice: accept a plea offer to second-degree manslaughter, carrying a recommended sentence of 7 to 15 years in prison, or risk a much longer term if convicted of murder at trial.

Allen, without hesitation, opted for the latter, maintaining his innocence and preparing to argue self-defense.

This decision means the legal battle for Allen, represented by attorney Matthew LaBeau, is far from over. Bay County Prosecutor Joseph Sheeran had put forth the plea deal, which is now off the table.

Allen had previously entered a guilty plea to carrying a concealed weapon, a charge stemming directly from the June 2024 incident, and is awaiting sentencing for that offense.

According to court records and earlier testimony, the fatal confrontation reportedly arose from arguments between Allen and Green involving both money and a woman.

While Allen admits to being present during the shooting, he has consistently asserted that his actions were taken in self-defense, a claim that will now be rigorously tested in a full trial. The exact date for the trial is yet to be set, but it promises to be a pivotal moment for all parties involved.

The rejection of such a significant plea offer underscores the gravity of the charges and the stark difference in perspectives between the prosecution and the defense.

As the community watches, the legal system prepares to delve into the intricate details of that fateful June day, determining whether Allen's claim of self-defense holds up against the charge of murder.