District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez Brings in Top Trial Attorney for Laken Riley Murder Case
In a surprising turn of events, District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez of Athens-Clarke County has announced that she will not be personally trying the murder case of Laken Riley. This decision comes after facing criticism from lawmakers and lawyers who doubt her ability to handle such a high-profile case. To ensure that justice is served, Gonzalez has made the decision to bring in a top trial attorney, Sheila Ross, from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council (PAC). The move has sparked both support and controversy within the community.
The announcement was made by Gonzalez herself, confirming the news to Channel 2’s Michael Seiden. She expressed her gratitude to her colleagues from across Georgia who have supported their circuit during this tragic event at their flagship institution. Gonzalez emphasized that the safety of every citizen is their top priority and that they are fully committed to ensuring justice is served for the loss of every life.
Sheila Ross is no stranger to the Western District, having previously worked on Riley’s case. Gonzalez welcomed Ross back, praising her as a knowledgeable and well-respected trial attorney with the expertise needed to bring justice on behalf of Laken Riley. The district attorney’s office has been in constant communication with law enforcement partners throughout the investigation.
The decision to bring in Sheila Ross was not without its critics. Attorney Kevin Epps, a lifelong resident of Athens and a major critic of Gonzalez, expressed his disappointment and lack of confidence in the district attorney. Epps claimed that Gonzalez has failed to achieve a single guilty verdict in a jury trial involving any criminal case. He is currently suing Gonzalez on behalf of an Athens bar owner, accusing her of being unwilling to do her job. Epps believes that Gonzalez and her office are ill-equipped to prosecute the murder suspect accused of killing Riley.
Epps is not alone in his criticism. State representative Houston Gains, a Republican from Athens, took to social media to call on Gonzalez to pursue the death penalty in the case. However, Gonzalez had previously stated in a memo published on her first day in office that she would not seek the death penalty while prosecuting cases. This has further fueled the controversy surrounding her decision-making.
It is worth noting that last August, nearly 60 current and former prosecutors from all over the county filed a brief with the Georgia Supreme Court in support of Gonzalez following a lawsuit filed against her. This suggests that there are those who believe in her abilities and trust her judgment.
The Laken Riley murder case has gripped the community of Athens-Clarke County, leaving many eager for justice to be served. With the appointment of Sheila Ross as the lead trial attorney, the case is sure to receive the attention it deserves. The victim’s family and friends continue to be in the thoughts and prayers of the district attorney’s office as they navigate through this difficult time.
As the case progresses and more information becomes available, further updates will be provided by Gonzalez’s office. It is clear that their commitment lies in keeping the community safe and ensuring that those who seek to do harm are brought to justice. The eyes of Athens-Clarke County remain fixed on this high-profile murder case, eagerly awaiting the day when justice will be served for Laken Riley.
