ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. – Defense lawyers for Richard Allen made a startling admission during Tuesday’s jury selection.
Allen’s defense team revealed that hair was found in Abby Williams’ hand that didn’t match Richard Allen. That’s the first time that information has been made public. The defense made the comments during “mini opening statements” preceding jury selection.
Allen is charged with four counts of murder in connection with the deaths of Abby and her friend Libby German in February 2017. Indiana State Police announced his arrest in October 2022.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, three previously selected jurors were dismissed from the trial, bringing the total number of selected jurors down to 11.
One was removed because of childcare issues, another over health concerns. A third was dismissed as well.
Due to the high-profile nature of the case, Allen’s defense team asked for a change of venue. Special Judge Fran Gull, appointed by the Indiana Supreme Court to oversee the case after the original judge recused himself, determined that was logistically challenging.
She decided to bring in jurors from Allen County and have them transported to Carroll County for the trial. Jury selection began Monday, when 12 jurors and two alternates were chosen. Three of them were dismissed on Tuesday.
More than 50 prospective jurors have been called for the next round of jury selection.
The jurors will be sequestered for about a month. After a break in the proceedings on Wednesday, they’ll be sworn in on Thursday and transported to Carroll County.
Gull is scheduled to meet with the media on Thursday afternoon, with opening statements and testimony set to start on Friday.
The judge also has several motions to consider before the trial begins.
