The first jury trial in Calhoun County since 2015 ended in acquittal. The trial went three days. Jury selection took all day Wednesday. Thursday and Friday morning the case was presented. Friday afternoon was closing statements and charge to the jury.
The charges included two accounts of sexual indecency with a child and one count of rape. Other charges presented at the onset were dropped before it was given to the jury. Jason Jeffers was found to be not guilty of all charges.
In closing arguments, the State recapped the witness testimonies and why the jury should consider the charges.
The defense emphasized the presumption of innocence and burden is on the prosecutor to prove without any reasonable doubt the guilt of the defendant.
The defense reminded the jury of the lack of DNA evidence, no trauma or physical evidence, no other witnesses, lack of specific details or signs typically evident, inconsistency in testimonies and several more initial issues. The defense also cited a list of complications to the mother's testimony as well as her motive and character.
The case was presented to the jury based on testimony with no physical evidence supporting the accusations. Jurors agreed that there was no option but to render a 'not guilty' verdict.
The jury was sent to deliberate at 3:32 p.m. Friday and returned with their decision at 5:00 p.m.
