Suspect in death of greenhouse owner at Lake Wylie home fighting extradition, hearing set for Thursday

The Honduran immigrant accused of killing his former employer last month in Lake Wylie is expected in a Charlotte courtroom Thursday as he fights extradition to face murder charges in South Carolina.

Because Kevin Dejesus was arrested in North Carolina, York County Sheriff’s Office deputies have to extradite him to face charges. But Dejesus continues to fight being moved. A judge will decide during a 9 a.m. hearing Thursday if Dejesus should receive bond while fighting extradition.

Dejesus, 21, of Charlotte, was arrested two weeks ago after police said in court documents a broken taillight led to his arrest in the killing of Jesse Campbell.

Campbell, 65, a former high school biology teacher and beloved owner of Campbell’s Nursery and Greenhouses in Charlotte’s Dilworth community, was shot to death Jan. 6 at his Lake Wylie home.

Dejesus is a former employee at the greenhouse, but a motive for the crime remains unclear. Dejesus’ immigration status also remains unclear, as police said he was in possession of a Honduran passport when arrested.

A conviction for murder in South Carolina carries a sentence of 30 years to life.

This story was originally published February 3, 2016 at 3:52 PM with the headline "Suspect in death of greenhouse owner at Lake Wylie home fighting extradition, hearing set for Thursday."