Video: Desmond Turner found guilty; an emotional reaction from families, counsel

Desmond Turner was found guilty today for the execution-style murders of seven people on the night of June 1, 2006. It was a long, difficult, and emotional trial.

A second trial, for Turner’s alleged accomplice, James Stewart, begins in just over a month. But for now, the survivors of the Albarran / Covarrubias family — who for the last three years have awaited justice amid staggering grief — can take comfort that the main triggerman in this horrendous crime will most likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.

There’s lots to write, but for now I’m posting a short video of the scene in the courtroom after the verdict was read, convicting Turner of 23 separate counts of murder, robbery and criminal confinement. I cut this together very quickly just to convey a sense of the mood today. More to come after this weekend.

The first clip is of Marion County Prosecutor, Carl Brizzi, and deputy prosecutors Jennifer Haley and Janna Skelton. They had a lot on the line in this trial, and came through despite a completely circumstantial case. Defense attorneys did not make themselves available to the media for comment.

The second clip is of Desmond Turner’s family. It was the first sign of emotion I saw from Turner’s mother during the whole week trial. Throughout, she had the look of a woman who had suffered long in this life. When the verdict was finally read she collapsed into sobbing, and had to be carried out of the courtroom.

The third clip is of Maria Flores — sister, aunt, great-aunt and sister-in-law to the seven victims. She exemplified grace, decorum, compassion and dignity in every way.

From there, I will let Ms. Turner’s grief, and Ms. Flores’ dignity speak for themselves. I think the two women’s reactions stand as a pretty powerful summation of what was at stake in today’s decision.

Most of these clips were shot by Steven Foster, my assistant for the day. His camera wrangling freed me up significantly to concentrate on taking notes. Awesome show, great job, Steven.

Tomorrow, Friday, begins phase two of the trial, in which Judge Robert Altice will decide whether or not life without parole is an appropriate punishment. I wouldn’t bet against it. Should he decide LWOP is, indeed, appropriate, the third phase — in which Turner is actually sentenced — becomes mostly a formality and a chance for victim statements.

During phase two, we’ll hear the prosecution argue for why Turner should be denied parole; the defense will call witnesses to demonstrate cause for leniency (Turner’s mother, sister, et al.).

Thanks to Jon Murray, court reporter for the Indianapolis Star, for explaining that to me.