Kenneth DeHart, the man accused of killing Blount County Deputy Greg McCowan and injuring Deputy Shelby Eggers, appeared in court today.

Judge William R. Brewer appointed a public defender to represent DeHart.

A preliminary hearing was set for Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

DeHart was captured on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, when police raided a home on Linden Avenue.

DeHart is charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in the shooting.

Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong has said he would like prosecutors to pursue the death penalty for DeHart.

Deputies had initiated a stop on suspicion of erratic driving by DeHart. Officers say he refused to get out of the SUV. DeHart reportedly produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies. At least one deputy returned fire, and DeHart drove off.

DeHart is being held in a neighboring jail to Blount County.