Suspect in attack on doctor in Tennyson Oaks sentenced to 40 years

Roy Hayes, Jr., 21, has changed his plea to guilty just as jury selection was set to kick off in the Rapides Parish courthouse on Tuesday morning for his trial.

Hayes was one of two people charged with aggravated second-degree battery, attempted armed robbery, and aggravated burglary for an attack on a doctor in the Tennyson Oaks neighborhood back in April 2018.

With the blessing of the victim, who did survive the attack, Hayes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit armed robbery, conspiracy to commit aggravated second-degree battery, and conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary. He faced 95 years on his old charges, now he has been sentenced to 40 years.

"Every time we have a serious crime of this nature, we like to consult with the victim," said prosecutor, Brian Cespiva. "In this case, the victim was agreeable to the substantial 40-year sentence. He was happy to get a violent criminal off the streets that we will not have to deal with here in Alexandria."

The other suspect in the case, Johnny Smith, Jr., 22, will head to trial on July 22. Hayes was represented by a public defender, Toni Martin. Judge Chris Hazel was assigned to the case.