In early 2017, two Indiana teenagers, Abigail “Abby” Williams and Liberty “Libby” German, were found dead after going missing while hiking on a trail. The case remained unsolved for more than five years until late 2022 when Richard Allen, a pharmacy technician and married father, was charged with their murders in Delphi, Indiana. As Allen’s trial began with jury selection, details surrounding the case have been limited due to a gag order issued by Judge Frances Gull in response to intense media coverage.
Allen’s defense maintains his innocence and argues that he has no criminal history. However, prosecutors have alleged confessions made by Allen to his wife and others while he was imprisoned, although his lawyers claim he was suffering psychosis at the time. The defense has also attempted to introduce an alternate theory involving a ritualistic sacrifice, which the judge has denied.
Throughout the investigation, police released audio and images from Libby’s cellphone that were believed to depict the suspect. The trial is set to continue in Caroll County, with jurors sequestered, and could last about a month. While the defense has requested jurors visit the crime scene for a better understanding, the prosecutors have objected citing security concerns. The community of Delphi continues to seek justice for Abby and Libby, who were remembered for their love of sports, reading, and family. The families remain determined to seek justice for the teenagers’ deaths.
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