The ongoing trial of Richard Allen, accused of the 2017 murders of teenagers Abby Williams and Libby German in Delphi, Indiana, has entered its 15th day at the Carroll County Courthouse. As reported by WTHR, the court saw testimony from Allen's sister and daughter, who denied his involvement in any acts of molestation, despite previous confessions of such behaviors. This testimony could challenge the credibility of Allen's multiple prison confessions, which the defense claims were influenced by his compromised mental state.
The defense sought to further bolster their argument by calling upon Dr. Polly Westcott, a neuropsychologist, who discussed Allen's mental health status. According to WRTV, Dr. Westcott testified that Allen was affected by intense anxiety and depression from a young age and diagnosed him with Dependent Personality Disorder. She asserted that his time in the Department of Corrections had caused his mental health to significantly decline, potentially leading to psychosis.
The jury saw a video of Allen during his incarceration, giving them insight into his current psychological state. Dr. Westcott testified that Allen is more likely to direct aggression inward rather than outward, based on her psychological evaluations.
Furthermore, as FOX 59 indicated, the defense has suggested that Allen’s multiple confessions may have been a byproduct of his mental distress. In contrast, prosecutors maintain that such behavior was strategic, aimed to obfuscate the truthful confessions amidst the numerous others.