Preparations for trial continue in the double-murder case against Anthony Gaines, as evidence was the focus of discussions in Christian Circuit Court Wednesday afternoon.
Gaines appeared alongside defense attorney Brandi Jones, who meticulously highlighted what portions of evidence they are still seeking from the Commonwealth, including full phone records on Gaines’ phone, reports from the labs that have done evidence testing, regional law enforcement reports concerning the two victims in the case, updated evidence logs, if there were any additional anonymous tips concerning the case and more.
Judge Andrew Self signed an order clarifying the wants of the defense and that the Commonwealth is to make a best effort to fulfill those wants.
The issue concerning the viewing of electronic evidence at the Christian County Jail was brought up—inmates cannot currently use electronic devices to review evidence unless a representative from their attorney’s office is present, which Gaines’ attorneys contend is simply not possible for them to do, due to the sheer amount of digital evidence and the time it would require to view it all.
Judge Self says it is Gaines, and others’, right to review their evidence and he is sure a compromise can be reached, even if that means bringing Gaines over the Justice Center to look over the files.
Gaines is accused in the shooting deaths of his cousin, Kierra Wallace, and George Gomez at a home in Ashwood Village near Peach Street.
He’s charged with two counts of murder, first-degree robbery and wanton endangerment charges that are related to children in the home where he allegedly opened fire.