After a legal journey spanning over four years, Gage Ashley, 26, was found guilty in Cayuga County Court for the 2019 murder of Joshua Poole. Ashley was convicted on second-degree murder, among other charges, but acquitted of first-degree murder. The verdict brought a close to the final chapter in a series of trials linked to the tragic event that took place at 8 Delevan St. in Auburn on November 15, 2019.
The prosecution, led by the Cayuga County Chief Assistant District Attorney Chris Valdina and Special Counsel Mark Moody, expressed satisfaction with the jury’s decision. The Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office acknowledged the collaborative effort of local and state law enforcement in bringing justice to Joshua Poole’s murder. Ashley’s conviction was seen as a victory for the legal system and the community affected by the loss.
Sentencing for Ashley is scheduled for May 23, with his attorney indicating plans to explore appellate options, citing Ashley’s maintained innocence. The case, which saw testimony from 31 individuals over five days, culminated in a verdict that marks an end to the pursuit of justice for Joshua Poole, albeit with a commitment from all parties involved to continue scrutinizing the legal outcomes.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].