Richard Allen, a former CVS employee, was found guilty of murder on Monday for the 2017 deaths of two middle school girls, Abigail Williams and Liberty German, in Delphi, Indiana. This tragic case has profoundly impacted the local community.
After a four-week trial, the jury deliberated for four days before reaching the verdict. Allen, 52, pleaded not guilty to the charges surrounding the February 13, 2017, killings. He is scheduled to receive his sentencing on December 20.
The prosecution painted a grim picture, describing how Allen allegedly coerced the two girls, aged 13 and 14, down a hillside and fatally harmed them. During the trial, Carroll County Prosecutor Nick McLeland identified Allen as “the bridge guy,” a figure seen in a Snapchat video filmed by one of the girls just before their deaths, which led to a renewed investigation into Allen.
Despite compelling evidence, including witness testimonies and an unspent .40-caliber cartridge found at the crime scene linked to Allen’s firearm, the defense argued that the descriptions of “the bridge guy” did not match Allen and dismissed his confessions as unreliable, attributing them to a mental health crisis during his prolonged solitary confinement.
This case has reopened discussions about the challenges faced by families in resolving such devastating tragedies. While there may be ongoing legal proceedings, the conviction serves as a step toward justice for Abigail Williams and Liberty German’s families, offering hope that communities can find a sense of closure and healing in the wake of such heart-wrenching events.
As the case progresses through sentencing, it is essential to remember and honor the lives of the two young girls, hoping that their memory will inspire continual efforts in community safety and awareness.