A hearing was held in the courtroom of Christian Circuit Judge Andrew Self Friday morning to discuss amendments to a court order in the case against double murder suspect Anthony Gaines.
Gaines appeared alongside defense attorney Brandi Jones, who informed the court that while the Christian County Jail has helped address some of her prior concerns—including access to commissary and enabling Gaines to be able to contact her via email and call his mother—there remains the issue of continued solitary confinement and restricted access for other communications.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Rick Boling says that restriction is for a reason, citing a letter that Gaines allegedly wrote that “put a hit out” on a possible witness in the case.
Jones argued that Gaines needs more access to law information concerning the case, especially since he is now a candidate for the death penalty.
Gaines told the court that who he can contact via technology at the jail is already limited, and Jones says being back in general population would benefit her client’s mental health.
Judge Self made no rulings on the issue Friday, saying he wants to hear from staff at the jail concerning the arrangement and the technology.
He continued the matter to April 18 at 10 a.m. for an evidentiary hearing.
Gaines is charged with two-counts of murder, first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary, first-degree wanton endangerment, tampering with physical evidence and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.
He’s accused in the August, 2021 shooting deaths of his cousin, Kierra Wallace, and George Gomez at a home in Ashwood Village near Peach Street.