Accused deputy-shooter's brother pleads

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) - The brother of the man accused of shooting a Kalamazoo County Sheriff's deputy in the arm has pleaded guilty for his part in the crime.

Christopher Wright pleaded guilty on Tuesday to resisting and obstructing a police officer.

Dep. Jeff Nichols was shot in the arm on Jan. 6 after he pulled over a truck in a routine traffic stop in Portage.

When Nichols approached the vehicle, the driver pulled a gun and fired several shots, striking the deputy. Nichols returned fire, but the suspects took off.

Three people were apprehended later that night: brothers Christopher, 25, and William Wright, 28, and William's girlfriend Jessica Carpenter.

Christopher's plea was part of deal with prosecutors. As part of that deal, Christopher testified against his brother William on Jan. 24.

Christopher said the William was the driver who opened fire on the deputy that night and that the 9mm used in the shooting belonged to William.

The plea deal will limit Christopher into a jail sentence for time already served.

Christopher's bond was lowered on Tuesday from $1 million cash assurety to $2,500 cash assurety. His sentencing is set for Feb. 2.

A fourth suspect, Dominque Castle, is being sought in connection with the crime.