An Atmore man pleaded guilty Monday to felony murder in the June 2012 shooting death of an Atmore businessman.

Jones

Damien Deonshay Jones’ guilty plea — which came as attorneys were preparing to select a jury for his trial — also paves the way for Jones to testify against the man who authorities say pulled the trigger in the case, then-16-year-old De’Athony Dailey, Jones’ co-defendant.

Jones was a participant in the robbery of Kendrick Lamon Dortch, authorities said, but did not actually shoot the victim.

Jones entered a blind plea to felony murder, first-degree robbery and breaking and entering of a vehicle.

District Attorney Steve Billy said Jones will not be sentenced until after Dailey’s trial.

Billy said that his office would likely recommend a lesser sentence for Jones in exchange for his testimony.

Dailey had sought youthful offender status but was denied in December.