Unadilla Twp. Murder Suspect Bound Over for TrialUnadilla Twp. Murder Suspect Bound Over for Trial

11/29/13 - A Montcalm County man charged with a local murder is heading to trial. 49-year-old Mark David Jackson of Vestaburg is charged with a single count of Open Murder as a Fourth Habitual Offender in the death of 52-year-old Jonathan Risinger. Risinger’s body was found October 6th by authorities who were called to his Berkshire Road residence. Authorities say they believe the actual death took place on October 4th. However, no information has been released as to the manner of death or relationship between Jackson and Risinger. An exam conference in 53rd District Court had been set for Wednesday, but court records show Jackson waived his right to the hearing, which sends his case to circuit court for trial. If convicted, Jackson could face a sentence of life in prison. The case was investigated by the Unadilla Township Police Department and detectives from the Michigan State Police. At the time of the murder, Jackson was on parole for a 1996 conviction in Livingston County on six counts of 2nd degree home invasion, for which he served 14 years in prison. (JK)