A Freestone County jury last week, following an hour of deliberations, returned a verdict of guilty against Jerry Wayne 
Keithley, 70, of Buffalo, for continuous sexual abuse of a young child under the age of 14 (a First Degree Felony); and delivered a sentence of Life in prison with no possibility of parole.
The trial was presided over by District Judge Deborah Oakes Evans; with District Attorney Chris Martin representing the victim and the State of Texas, and Justin Reed serving as defense attorney for Keithley.
“This defendant was the definition of true evil, and I am thankful that with the help of a lot of good people that this child predator will never take a breath of free air again. Freestone County children are safer today because of it,” says Martin.
“Ultimately, this outcome would not have been possible without the bravery and strength of the child victim who faced her abuser; and testified to the jury of the abuse she endured at this monster’s hands,” says Martin.
“I would like to thank the men and women of the jury for the time and focus they dedicated to hearing a very tough case,” Martin continues. “Citizens like these are what make our system of justice possible.”
“In addition, a special thanks to Fairfield High School Counselor Lindy Neill for looking out for the well being of her students and taking appropriate actions when a student is in need of help,” he says. “To Deputy Investigator Clayton Aldrich who did an excellent job conducting the investigation which provided me the evidence I needed to seek a full measure of justice in this case.”
“I would also like to thank my assistant prosecutor Keith Meredith for his tireless help during the preparation for trial of this case.”
Defense attorney Justin Reed explains, “Although extremely disappointed in the verdict of the jury, we do greatly respect their hard work in reaching the outcome. In a case like this, all you can hope for is that the Jury made the right choice with their verdict.”
Keithley has filed an appeal and is awaiting his answer. If he is granted an appeal, he will be provided with a court appointed appeal attorney.
The “Times” will continue to follow this story; and provide information as it becomes available.
