PHOENIX – Law enforcement authorities are attempting to locate an accomplice to the January 2012 murders of Lawrence and Glenna Shapiro. Barry Michael Hassell II (D.O.B. 10/2/1983) is charged with two counts of felony first degree murder for driving Michael Crane to the Shapiro’s Paradise Valley neighborhood and conspiring with him to burglarize residences in the area. He faces a possible life sentence if convicted. Michael Crane is charged with actually committing the murders.

Following his indictment in November, 2013, Hassell was held in custody on a $1 million bond. His bond was subsequently reduced to $25,000 over the State’s objection. Hassell paid the bond and was released with orders to wear an electronic ankle monitor and observe a curfew. Last week, acting on reports from Hassell’s ankle monitor, police executed a warrant for entry into his home and found the monitor inside, apparently having been cut off.

Hassell failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing today. Judge Warren Granville issued a bench warrant for his arrest with a $1 million bond.

Hassell has prior felony convictions for possession of drug paraphernalia, burglary, and misconduct involving weapons. He was sentenced to a 2.5-year prison term in 2008 and was granted early termination of his probation after his release despite the State’s objection. He had six months remaining on his probation term at the time and committed the currently charged offenses three months later.

Anyone with information about Hassell’s whereabouts is encouraged to call 9-1-1 or Silent Witness at (480) 948-6377 or 1-800-343-8477.

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