Richard Allen guilty of Delphi murders, but silence order remains in place

by Junna Base November 11, 2024

On Monday, the jury in Richard Allen’s trial, after deliberating for about 18 hours over four days, found him guilty on four counts in the deaths of Liberty “Libby” German and Abigail “Abby” Williams.

It is unlikely to be the last time families, the public, journalists and true crime fans hear about the case. Allen can appeal the verdict. And for now, the confidentiality order that prevented family, law enforcement and lawyers from speaking publicly about the case is still in effect.

“People won’t be happy”: Judge Frances Gull asks for calm

Before handing down the verdict, special judge Frances Gull urged everyone in the courtroom to maintain composure. “No matter what the verdict is,” she said, “people are not going to be happy.”

That was true inside the courtroom and will be true beyond it as those interested in the case continue to seek additional information about the crime and the subsequent trial.

According to reports from the scene, people in the courtroom were gasping and sobbing, and when the news reached the crowd outside, people began screaming “guilty.” Several burst into cheers.

Gag order still in effect, says ISP

Gull previously issued a gag order barring law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys and families from speaking publicly about the case. Capt. Ron Galaviz, chief public information officer for the Indiana State Police, told reporters Monday that the gag order will remain in effect until it is lifted by a judge.

Reporters from the Indianapolis Star and the Lafayette Journal & Courier will continue to cover the case.

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