Second suspect arraigned in 2006 New London murder case

A New London man accused of conspiring with Darius K. Armadore Sr. six years ago to kill Todd “T-Rek” Thomas was arraigned Tuesday in Superior Court.

Gerjuan R. “Callie” Tyus, 32, who is incarcerated on an unrelated weapons charge, was served with a warrant charging him with murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

His family members and relatives of the victim watched from the gallery as Judge Susan B. Handy read Tyus his rights and discussed his legal representation.

“Yes, ma’am,” he said when the judge asked if he understood his rights.

Bruce A. Sturman, chief public defender, said Tyus qualifies for a court-appointed attorney and will be appointed one when he returns to court on Nov. 28.

New London police, working with the Southeastern Connecticut Cold Case Unit, obtained arrest warrants charging Armadore and Tyus with Thomas’ murder. The 30-year-old Thomas was fatally shot outside Ernie’s Café on Bank Street in New London on Dec. 23, 2006.

Armadore, also incarcerated on unrelated charges, was arraigned Monday.

The arrest warrant affidavits detailing the case against the two men have been sealed for two weeks.

Neither defendant entered a plea because they have the right to a probable cause hearing within 60 days, at which time the state must prove to a judge that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute them for murder.

— Karen Florin