UPDATE: Defense attorneys for Tanner Horner have urgently filed motions seeking to eliminate the death penalty in the murder case of Athena Strand, citing his autism diagnosis. This development comes as Horner’s legal team submitted 28 new motions on Wednesday morning in Fort Worth, Texas, significantly impacting the ongoing legal proceedings.
The most critical motion argues that Horner’s autism should exempt him from capital punishment, claiming it diminishes his culpability. The defense team emphasizes that the court has previously ruled against imposing the death penalty on individuals whose characteristics could lead to a wrongful conviction or negate the deterrent aims of such punishment. They reference the Robert Roberson case, where autism played a pivotal role in halting an execution.
Criminal defense attorney Russell Wilson, though not involved in this case, elaborates on the implications. “The Supreme Court has held that if a defendant cannot fully comprehend the nature of receiving the death penalty due to mental disabilities, it should not be imposed,” he stated. Wilson anticipates extensive debate surrounding Horner’s mental state, indicating that this motion may set the stage for further legal discussions.
The defense’s 28 motions also challenge the prosecution’s clarity, alleging constitutional vagueness in the charges and misconduct by the Wise County District Attorney. Another motion requests that video recordings of jurors and witnesses remain confidential, raising First Amendment concerns regarding public access versus privacy rights.
The court has yet to rule on any of these motions, increasing the urgency surrounding the case. Horner is charged with the kidnapping and murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand, who was reported missing from her Wise County home in December 2022. Authorities allege that Horner accidentally struck her with his vehicle while delivering a package, then panicked and abducted her, leading to her tragic death.
In previous hearings, Horner’s defense argued for the dismissal of police interviews over potential Miranda Rights violations. The trial has since been moved to Tarrant County, reflecting concerns about Horner’s ability to receive a fair trial amid significant media coverage in Wise County.
This latest development in the Athena Strand case underscores the complex interplay between mental health and the legal system, drawing attention from advocates and legal experts alike. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the court to see how these motions will be addressed, with implications that could resonate far beyond this case.
As legal proceedings continue, the community remains on high alert, grappling with the emotional weight of this heartbreaking case. The next steps in court are eagerly awaited, promising to shape the future of not just Tanner Horner but also the broader conversation around mental health and justice in America.
