The trial of Richard Allen, accused of the murders of Abigail “Abby” Williams and Liberty “Libby” German near a hiking trail in Delphi, Indiana in February 2017, began with the prosecution describing how Allen used fear and force to kill the girls by slitting their throats. The scene when the girls’ bodies were found was emotional, with Abby clothed in Libby’s clothes and covered in blood. The prosecution presented evidence including an unspent bullet and confessions from Allen that they believe prove his guilt. Witnesses who saw Allen at the scene will also be called to testify.
The defense lawyer painted a picture of a messy investigation that was flawed from the beginning, stating that evidence was lost and there was a “turf war” between investigators. The defense also highlighted a strand of hair found on Abby’s fingers that did not match Allen or the girls, suggesting it should be tested against relatives of the girls. They plan to challenge the state’s timeline and present evidence that the girls may have been abducted in another vehicle before being brought back to where they were found. The defense believes there is reasonable doubt in the case.
The trial took place in the small community where the girls lived, bringing renewed attention to the case. The emotional testimony of family members and witnesses painted a picture of the close relationship between Libby and Abby, who were like sisters. Libby’s father testified about searching for the girls when they went missing and the subsequent tragic discovery of their bodies. If found guilty, Allen could face up to 130 years in prison for the double murder charges.
Key evidence in the case includes a bullet linked to a pistol owned by Allen found near the bodies, as well as a video retrieved from Libby’s phone showing the apparent suspect giving commands to the girls. Allen allegedly admitted to the murders in multiple confessions, including to his wife and prison staff after his arrest. The defense withdrew a request for jurors to visit the crime scene and was denied the ability to present an alternate theory of the killings as part of a ritualistic sacrifice related to Odinism. The trial is expected to reveal fresh details and may shed light on the events leading to the tragic deaths of Abby and Libby.
Despite maintaining his innocence, Allen faces serious charges in the case and the prosecution is confident in their case against him. The trial will proceed with the presentation of evidence and witness testimonies to determine Allen’s guilt or innocence in the deaths of Abigail Williams and Liberty German. The community has waited for justice for the girls for over five years, and now, with the trial underway, they hope for closure and accountability for the lives lost in this tragic case.
