There is finally some progress in a murder 4 and a half years ago in Mount Vernon.  Jefferson County States Attorney Douglas Hoffman has announced 21-year old Damondros Q. James of Mount Vernon, has entered an open plea of guilty to First Degree Murder stemming from his involvement in the shooting death of Charles Ellis on May 31, 2011.  As a result of his plea, James will be sentenced at a date to be determined.  James faces a sentence of between 20 and 60 years in prison and must serve 100 percent of his sentence.  During the plea hearing, Hoffman and Attorney Aaron Hopkins stated to the court that a term of James plea agreement is that he is to fully cooperate with law enforcement officers and the States Attorneys’ Office in the prosecution of three co-defendants namely Demandre Black, Mark Taylor and Christopher Wells.  James has agreed to testify at the trials of the co-defendants if the need arises.  Christopher Wells previously entered an open plea of guilty to First Degree Murder and also awaits sentencing. Attorney Aaron Hopkins stated to the court that a term of James plea agreement is that he is to fully cooperate with law enforcement officers and the States Attorneys’ Office in the prosecution of three co-defendants namely Demandre Black, Mark Taylor and Christopher Wells. James has agreed to testify at the trials of the co-defendants if the need arises.