Richard Allen, the suspect in the Delphi murders case, is reportedly enduring “prisoner of war” living conditions, according to his lawyers. The case, which involves the murders of Abigail Williams and Liberty German in 2017, has faced disorder and complications since the investigation began. Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has called for caution and prudence in handling the case, emphasizing the importance of justice and closure for the victims’ families.
Allen, who was charged with the murders of Abigail and Libby, allegedly disappeared from a hike along the Monon High Bridge Trail in Delphi. Their bodies were discovered in a nearby wooded area the next day. Rokita has expressed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and taking immediate action if the case reaches the appellate court system. He has also submitted a brief to the Indiana Supreme Court to clarify legal issues in the double murder case.
In response to the leaked confidential photographs of the crime scene, Allen filed a motion to remove Judge Fran Gull from the case and reinstate his attorneys. However, Rokita and Gull opposed Allen’s petition, with Rokita stating that the attorneys demonstrated “gross negligence and incompetence.” Rokita argued that a writ of mandamus to reinstate Allen’s former attorneys is not currently warranted.
Allen’s attorneys have requested a speedy trial in January, rather than the previously scheduled October date. They also want their client to be represented by Andrew Baldwin and Bradley Rozzi, who withdrew from the case following the leak of crime scene photos. Baldwin and Rozzi previously alleged that the girls’ deaths were part of a ritualistic sacrifice performed by members of a pagan Odinist cult in Indiana. Prosecutors dismissed these claims as “colorful” and “unprofessional.”
Evidence from the crime scene reportedly matched evidence collected from Allen’s home during a search warrant executed in October 2022. Items recovered include a blue Carhartt jacket, a SIG Sauer P226 .40-caliber semi-automatic handgun, and a .40-caliber S&W cartridge. The handgun found at Allen’s home was consistent with the unspent bullet located at the murder site in 2017. Allen has also allegedly confessed to the crimes multiple times during phone conversations with his wife while in jail.
A gag order has been issued in Allen’s case, restricting attorneys and police from publicly discussing details of the murders and allegations against the suspect. The case continues to generate significant attention and concern, with Allen’s lawyers raising questions about his treatment in prison and seeking a fair administration of justice.
