The Waverly murder trial is over...with total acquittal Thursday evening
In less than two hours, the jury returned a verdict of "not guilty" on all six counts.
Pike County Prosecutor Rob Junk said "If I said I was severely disappointed, that would be an understatement." He also noted that his department was looking into ways to make sure Matt Nichols remains safe.
The case started with a home invasion 6:45am February 7th, 2011, where two disguised men burst in on Nichols, assaulted and threatened him, and stole his firearms. Nichols used one they missed, a small scoped 30/30 deer hunting rifle holdng 6 rounds, to fatally would one of the men - and then said he recognized the other months later by his "gangster walk."
That was Michael Sabo, who was acquitted of six counts: felony murder, two of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, felonious assault, and theft of firearms...all but the last with gun specifications.
The jury went into deliberations shortly after 5 p.m., and returned a verdict at about 7 p.m.
See also:
Thursday's earlier report
Wednesday's report
Tuesday's report
Clear Channel Reporter Kevin Coleman gave updates from Waverly throughout the trial.
