ABC 2020: Murder Trial and Verdict

Overview

• Topic: The murder trial of Nick Hillary.
• Victim: 12-year-old Garrett Phillips.
• Accused: Nick Hillary, former college soccer coach.
• Location: Potsdam, New York.
• Context: Racial dynamics in a predominantly white town.

Incident Background

• Date: October 2011.
• Victim Details: Garrett Phillips, an athletic and popular sixth grader.
• Suspect: Nick Hillary, dated Garrett's mother, Tandy Cyrus.
• Initial Crime Scene: Garrett was found suffocated and strangulated in his mother's apartment.

Investigation

• Police Theory: Suspected that Nick Hillary killed Garrett due to breakup tensions with Tandy.
• Alleged Motive: Hillary wanted to maintain his relationship with Tandy, Garrett stood in the way.
• Interrogation Details: Nick was interrogated and strip-searched, raising racial bias questions.
• Physical Evidence: Fingerprints on the escape window did not match Hillary; DNA evidence was inconclusive.

Legal Proceedings

• Civil Suit: Nick sued the police for wrongful treatment during the initial investigation.
• Deposition: Nick's deposition revealed he drove a blue Honda near the crime scene.
• Prosecution Case: Based heavily on circumstantial evidence and timeline inconsistencies.
• Defense Arguments: Lack of physical evidence linking Nick to the crime, and alibi witnesses.

Trial Highlights

• No Jury: Nick waived right to a jury, opting for a judge-only trial.
• Key Evidence: Surveillance footage, Nick's statements in the deposition.
• Prosecution Argument: Nick had motive and opportunity, was seen near the crime scene.
• Defense Argument: Lack of direct evidence; challenge to motive and racial bias in the investigation.

Verdict and Reaction

• Outcome: Nick Hillary found not guilty of Garrett's murder.
• Community Reaction: Mixed emotions – relief for Nick's supporters, devastation for Garrett's family.
• Post-trial Comments: Discussions on racial overtones in the case.

Broader Context

• Racial Dynamics: Case highlighted racial tensions in law enforcement, particularly around Black men.
• Unresolved Case: Sentiment of justice unserved as the true perpetrator remains free.