Richard Allen, a 52-year-old man from Indiana, has been found guilty on all charges in the 2017 murder of two teenage girls, Abigail Williams and Liberty German. The jury announced their verdict on Monday afternoon, after deliberating for more than 19 hours over the course of 26 days. This brings an end to a long and emotional trial that has captivated the nation.
The girls, aged 13 and 14, disappeared on February 13, 2017, while on an afternoon hike near their small hometown of Delphi. Their bodies were found the next day, about a quarter-mile from an abandoned railroad bridge known as the Monon High Bridge. The case has been a source of intense interest for true-crime enthusiasts, with multiple delays and controversies surrounding the evidence and the defendant.
Richard Allen, also known as “Bridge Guy,” was identified as the man seen in a grainy cellphone video recorded by one of the girls as they crossed the bridge. He was charged with two counts of murder and two counts of murder while committing or attempting to commit kidnapping. The prosecution presented evidence that an unspent bullet found between the girls’ bodies had been fired from Allen’s .40-caliber handgun, and that his voice could be heard on the cellphone video telling the girls to “down the hill.”
Throughout the trial, Allen maintained his innocence, but the prosecution presented multiple confessions from him, including one to his wife where he said, “I did it. I killed Abby and Libby.” The defense argued that these confessions were unreliable due to Allen’s mental state at the time, as he had been in solitary confinement for months and was under extreme stress.
The trial also saw the defense attempt to argue that the girls were killed as part of a ritual sacrifice by members of a white nationalist group. However, the judge ruled against this, stating that there was no admissible evidence to support this claim.
The case has been a difficult one for the families of the victims, as well as the community of Delphi. The trial was held in the girls’ hometown, and the jury was made up of 12 members from the local area. The emotional toll of the trial was evident, with Allen remaining mostly emotionless throughout the reading of the verdict.
The guilty verdict brings some closure to the families and the community, but it also serves as a reminder of the tragic loss of two young lives. The girls were described as kind, intelligent, and full of life, and their deaths have left a void in the hearts of those who knew them.
The sentencing for Richard Allen is set for December 20, where he could face up to 130 years in prison. While this verdict cannot bring back the girls or ease the pain of their loved ones, it is a step towards justice and closure for all those affected by this senseless tragedy.
The trial of Richard Allen has been a long and difficult journey, but it has also shown the strength and resilience of the community of Delphi. The jury, who were sequestered for 26 days, took their responsibility seriously and deliberated for over 19 hours before reaching their verdict. The prosecution and defense teams presented their cases with diligence and professionalism, and the judge ensured a fair and just trial.
As we reflect on the trial and the case, let us remember Abigail Williams and Liberty German, two young girls whose lives were taken too soon. Let us also remember the families and friends who have been impacted by this tragedy, and continue to support them as they navigate through their grief.
The guilty verdict in the trial of Richard Allen brings some closure, but it also serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and to prioritize the safety of our communities. Let us hope that justice will be served and that the families of Abigail and Liberty can find some peace in knowing that the man responsible for their deaths has been held accountable. May their memories live on and may their families find comfort in the love and support of their community.
