Richmond Hill residents react to Prosecutor's decision

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The three accused of causing the explosion in the Richmond Hills subdivision might spend the rest of their life behind bars if the Marion County’s Prosecutor gets his way.

Terry Curry will seek life sentences without parole against Monserrate Shirley, Mark Leonard, Bob Leonard.

Doug Aldridge, crime coordinator for the Richmond Hill subdivision, told 24-Hour News 8 he is comfortable with the decision.

“This is as good as can be,” Aldridge said.  “As long as they don’t get out of jail and do it again, I am OK with it.”

Aldridge said this option gives the criminals a chance to think about what they did.

Rebuilding is underway. The frame of the first house demolished in the subdivision is up. Three more houses are slated for demolition. The first of the three is scheduled to take place February 25.

Sherry Sullivan considers her family lucky. Their home suffered more than $80,000 in damages. Sullivan, like so many, is torn on the prosecutor’s decision.

“I don't know if they deserve the death penalty, but definitely being locked away for life, I feel does justice,” Sullivan said. “As long as they are going to be locked away for life so they can't hurt anybody else.”

Scott Heberden's team is restoring some of the homes damaged in the Richmond Hill subdivision. He said his clients have become more than customers.

“You develop a relationship with these people as you are doing the work,” Heberden said.  “You develop a friendship and it can be tough when you hear the stories.”

Prosecutor Curry is scheduled to answer resident questions Monday night during a private meeting.