A 50-year-old Hungry Horse man accused of fatally shooting his wife changed his plea Thursday to no contest.
Charles Smith, who appeared in Flathead County District Court, told the judge that he wanted the case to be over. He had previously pleaded not guilty to deliberate homicide in the death of his 46-year-old wife, Jody Smith.
Charles Smith called 911 on Dec. 9 and told dispatchers he had shot his wife, according to the sheriff’s office. He surrendered to authorities on the porch of his home in Hungry Horse.
Inside, deputies found the body of Jody Smith, who had been shot with a pistol four times in the chest and abdomen. Authorities said alcohol was involved, and the shooting occurred after an argument.
On Thursday, Smith didn’t object as County Attorney Ed Corrigan outlined the state’s case.
Smith faces up to life in prison and a $50,000 fine. Another 10 years could be added to the sentence because he used a firearm.