GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) — A judge says a sentencing hearing will continue for an Alabama woman convicted in her granddaughter’s running death, but he has not announced a ruling on a defense motion to throw out the case over allegations of juror misconduct.
After meeting with prosecution and defense lawyers, Etowah County Circuit Judge Billy Ogletree said the hearing for Joyce Hardin Garrard would continue Wednesday afternoon.
However, spectators could see that one juror is no longer present. The judge made no comment on the juror’s departure.
Defense lawyers had told Ogletree they had evidence of misconduct by at least four jurors.
Garrard was convicted of running granddaughter Savannah Hardin to death as punishment for a lie about candy.
The jury is considering whether Garrard should get a death sentence or life in prison.
