Midstate man convicted of murder in adoptive mother’s death

(Chambersburg) — A central Pennsylvania man has been convicted of first-degree murder In the beating death of his adoptive mother more than five years ago.

Jurors in Franklin County deliberated for an hour and a half today before convicting 41-year-old Marcus Wallace of the murder charge as well as burglary in the December 2009 slaying of 70-year-old Consuella Wallace.

Authorities alleged that Marcus Wallace was burglarizing his adopted mother’s home when he attacked her. She died after more than a month on life-support.

Defense attorney Michael Palermo argued the case is not so clear-cut and said some evidence presented called for speculation on the jury’s part.

Prosecutors originally said they planned to seek the death penalty but later decided against doing so, citing evidence uncovered about the defendant’s mental health history.