Christian-Newsom Murders: Jurors Hear George Thomas’ Statement
On January 7, 2007 Christopher Newsom and his girlfriend Channon Christian were carjacked, kidnapped, and held captive in a house on Chipman Street in Knoxville. Christian and Newsom were both raped, tortured and murdered. Five people were arrested in connection with the brutal murders. In October 2009 Lemaricus Davidson, the alleged ringleader, was convicted and sentenced to death by lethal injection for his role in the rape and murders. Davidson’s brother, Letalvis Cobbins was sentenced to life without parole in August for rape and murder. Eric Boyd received an 18-year sentence for assisting in the carjacking. Vanessa Coleman awaits trial, and George Thomas is currently standing trail in Knox County before a jury of Chattanooga residents.
The battle over suspect George Thomas’ fate lies in legalese that poses this crucial question: Did he “solicit, direct, aid or attempt to aid” the killings?
In opening statements, Thomas’ defense attorney told jurors that Thomas considered the plight of Christian, a University of Tennessee student, and Newsom, her boyfriend and a trim carpenter, as “none of his business.”
“Believe me, that is reprehensible, but it’s not criminal,” attorney Tom Dillard said.
