BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Robert Dougherty, 35, of Winooski, walked into a Vermont courtroom Tuesday with little emotion.
On Monday police say the Winooski man went to a South Burlington apartment complex with 22-year-old Jacob Beane, 22, of Shelburne and Krystal Tyler, of Shelburne.
Police say the three went to visit their drug dealer Abdul Clay, 35, of South Burlington, but not to buy anything.
"This was clearly a plan and conspiracy to rob somebody," said Vermont State's Attorney T.J. Donovan.
But police say Clay fought back.
That's when they say Dougherty shot Clay and took off.
Soon after he died.
Clay's girlfriend Kelly Johnson couldn't believe the news.
"I was home," said Johnson.
"What did you do? What was your reaction," said Fox 44 News?
"My reaction was it's not true. It's not true. I can't be true. But it was true," said Johnson.
Johnson sat in court as Dougherty, Beane and Tyler were charged.
Dougherty pleaded not guilty to first degree murder.
All three pleaded not guilty to assault and robbery.
Beane didn't hold back emotions and cried throughout his arraignment.
As he left, he received support from family and friends.
"Stay strong," said someone in the courtroom.
For Johnson staying strong is something she says she is going to have a hard time with.
‘"I call his cell phone because you know I can hear his voice," said Johnson.
Dougherty and Beane are being held without bail.
Tyler's bail was set at $50,000 dollars.
