Robert Kessler, facing first‑degree murder charges for the 2021 death of Stephanie Crone‑Overholt, sought a plea bargain that included a Philly cheesesteak, fries and a Pepsi during jury selection on Oct. 26, 2026, but Judge Nick Nazaretian dismissed the request—he could not provide food as an incentive for a plea.
Kessler, 74, has been in custody since 2021 and chose to represent himself despite a visual impairment and the sheer complexity of a murder case. He argued that a closed‑door plea would save taxpayers the cost of a lengthy trial.
The judge clarified that no food could be given as part of a plea agreement, citing procedural rules that prohibit rewarding defendants with personal items. "I can't give food to a defendant in exchange for a plea," Nazaretian said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining judicial integrity.
After the rejection, Kessler withdrew his offer and asked the court to resume jury selection. The case will now move forward toward a hearing on the murder charge, with the next scheduled date to be announced by the court.