Suspect to plead guilty in connection to Lancaster Amish woman's abduction, death

It appears the case of Linda Stoltzfoos' abduction and death will come one step closer to an end on Friday.

According to the Lancaster County Court calendar, Justo Smoker is going to plead guilty in front of judge David Ashworth in courtroom 12 at 9 a.m.

Smoker, 35, was charged with homicide, kidnapping and false imprisonment after Stoltzfoos went missing in June 2020. Christopher Tallarico, attorney for the Paradise Township man, confirmed to Lancaster Online that his client is scheduled to enter a guilty plea, but didn't give specifics on the charge.

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Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams announced she and other members of law enforcement will hold a news conference after Friday's proceedings.

Stoltzfoos was last seen walking home from a church service on June 21, 2020. Officials believe the 18-year-old Amish woman was killed shortly after her abduction.

Law enforcement agencies and volunteers searched for months in the area around her Upper Leacock Township home, including the area where her remains were found on April 21. She was buried more than 3 feet deep on Amtrak property behind Dutchland, Inc., where Smoker used to work.

Smoker has been held in Lancaster County Prison since his arrest more than a year ago.

This is a developing story. Check back for more details.

Shelly Stallsmith is a trends reporter for the York Daily Record. She can be reached at mstallsmith@ydr.com or followed on Twitter at @ShelStallsmith.