(Image: AP)
In a dramatic revelation in the ongoing trial concerning the 2017 Delphi murders, a court heard that the suspect, Richard Allen, self-reported his presence at the crime scene shortly after the tragic deaths of Liberty German and Abigail Williams. However, this crucial tip-off was allegedly “misfiled” and ultimately “fell through the cracks,” complicating the investigation that left the small Indiana community in shock for years.
The murders of the two young girls sent ripples of fear and confusion through Delphi, Indiana, a town with a population of fewer than 3,000. Richard Matthew Allen, now 52, faces serious charges of murder and felony murder—specifically, murder committed during the commission of another felony, in this case, alleged kidnapping. Allen, a married father of five, was arrested five years after the heinous crimes when a bullet found at the scene was matched to a gun he owned.
During the trial, a volunteer file clerk named Kathy Shank testified about the investigation’s missteps. On September 21, 2022, Shank discovered a file folder that contained a tip dated February 16, just three days before the murders. In this tip, a person identified as “Richard Allen Whiteman” reported being on the trails between 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on the day of the crime. This individual also claimed to have seen three girls.
Unfortunately, due to a filing error, this vital tip was misclassified. Allen lived on Whiteman Drive, but “Whiteman” was not part of his name, leading to the crucial oversight. Carroll County Sheriff Tony Liggett commented on this alarming oversight, suggesting that it allowed Allen to remain “hiding in plain sight” for years, complicating efforts to bring him to justice.
The courtroom was filled with tension as evidence was presented to the jury, including autopsy reports that visibly distressed many jurors. Graphic images of the girl’s injuries were shown, resulting in significant emotional reactions from those present. One juror reportedly buried his head in his hands while another covered her mouth in horror.
Dr. Kohr, the pathologist who performed the autopsies, provided detailed and disturbing accounts of the injuries sustained by the girls. Abigail Williams suffered a significant cut to her throat, approximately 5 to 6 centimeters long, which partially severed her jugular vein. Dr. Kohr estimated that she would have experienced excruciating pain for five to ten minutes before succumbing to her injuries. He stated that Abby would have entered “fight or flight mode” as shock set in.
Liberty German suffered even more severe injuries. Dr. Kohr described three deep slashes to her throat—one on the left, one in the center, and one on the right. These wounds partially severed her left carotid artery and completely severed both her right carotid artery and jugular vein. Unlike Abby, who may have endured a longer death, Libby’s injuries indicated a more rapid demise, with evidence suggesting significant swelling in her brain, indicative of a prolonged and painful death.
