Richard Allen, convicted of murdering Abby Williams and Libby German in 2017, was sentenced to 130 years in prison on Friday. The sentence, handed down by Special Judge Fran Gull, consists of two consecutive 65-year terms.
A high-profile case comes to an end
The sentencing follows Allen’s conviction on four counts of murder last month after a 17-day trial. Allen was tied to the crime scene through an unspent cartridge found near the Monon High Bridge and confessed multiple times while in custody. His defense argued these confessions were coerced due to mental duress and isolation but failed to sway the court.
Prosecutors painted Allen as a remorseless killer, citing evidence and his behavior both during the trial and the murders. Defense attorneys had also attempted to introduce an alternative theory blaming members of a Norse pagan group, but this was barred by the judge.
Victim impact statements
Family members of the victims delivered emotional testimony during the sentencing.
- Kerry Timmons, Libby German’s mother, described the devastation of losing her daughter and the profound grief her family continues to endure.
- Becky Patty, Libby’s grandmother, angrily condemned Allen for his actions and his lack of remorse. She noted Allen had even developed photos for Libby’s funeral in his role as a CVS employee, calling it an act devoid of any humanity.
- Diana Erskin, Abby Williams’ grandmother, recounted the sleepless nights and anguish caused by the crime scene photos and the horrifying details revealed during the trial.
Each family member urged the court to impose the maximum sentence, citing the unimaginable fear and pain the girls endured.
Judge’s remarks
Judge Fran Gull described the Delphi murders as one of the most disturbing cases she has ever presided over. She noted Allen’s lack of remorse, commenting on his frequent eye-rolling throughout the trial, and emphasized the lifelong impact of his crimes on the victims’ families.
Aftermath
With the trial concluded, Judge Gull lifted the gag order that had been in place for over two years. Allen’s defense team has already announced plans to appeal the conviction.
The sentencing marks the end of a six-year quest for justice for the families of Abby Williams and Libby German, but the pain of their loss remains a heavy burden for all involved.
