Today, after being arrested a year ago, Christopher Gay and Johnathan Kozee were acquitted of murder by a jury at the Scioto County Common Pleas Court. In connection with the death of Jimmy Liles, a number of charges were brought against the two men.
They were both convicted of Felonious Assault by the jury.
This evening’s decision came shortly after 7 p.m. SCDN reporter Austin Potts was at the courthouse and says the jury was offered dinner around 5:30 pm and Judge Harcha told them he expected a decision today. Reports indicated they were having trouble making a unanimous decision.
There was more drama in court today. The family of Andrew Yelley was present wearing shirts in support of their son. Yelley’s mother, Sandy Clark, told SCDN, “I want justice for my son, Andrew Yelley, too”. Andrew Yelley was found dead on September 1, 2020. Clark believes Kozee killed her son.
Family members were taken into the courtroom for remarks they made that could sway the jury. Following a lengthy discussion with everyone involved, Judge Harcha ordered Sandy Clark, Meagan Clark, and their supporters removed from the courthouse and banned from returning.
Gay was also found guilty of possessing criminal tools and possession, but his jail term will run concurrently with the 8-12 year sentence the judge swiftly handed down to both of the defendants after the verdict. They were given credit for the 1 year they have already served awaiting trial.
Gay was represented by Shawn Stratton. Kozee was represented by Gene Meadows.
