The Duncan Banner

Breaking News

April 24, 2012

NOT GUILTY: Jury returns verdict on Brandon Balthrop

Toni Hopper The Duncan Banner

DUNCAN — Brandon Wiley Balthrop was found not guilty today on all six felony counts against him, concluding a two-year process. About 6 p.m. he walked out of the Stephens County Courthouse a free man.

In 2010, Balthrop was charged with three counts of sexual battery, two counts of second degree rape by instrumentation and one count of kidnapping.

Balthrop was a Stephens County Sheriff’s Office deputy at the time the allegations were made. In office at that time was District Attorney Bret Burns, who filed the charges.

Current District Attorney Jason Hicks had recused his office from prosecuting the case when he took office. The case was handled by Jackson County District Attorney John Wampler and staff.

“We’re glad it’s over,” Balthrop said.

See The Banner’s printed edition Wednesday for a full story.

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