HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The sentencing hearing for former Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely has been set for August 20 at 9 a.m. The same day, former Huntsville Police officer William Darby will be sentenced in Madison County.
Blakely was found guilty of two felony charges and removed from office on August 2. A Limestone County jury convicted Blakely on counts 2 and 13, first-degree theft of property and use of official position for personal gain, respectively. He was found not guilty on eight other charges.
RELATED: Jury: Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely guilty on two charges, not guilty on remaining 8
After his conviction, one juror filed an affidavit claiming a medical condition had falsely led her to find Blakely guilty on these two charges and that the jury was not in fact unanimous. Following this affidavit, Blakely's defense filed a motion calling for a mistrial to be declared. Presiding Judge Pamela Baschab denied the motion for a mistrial.
Darby was convicted on May 7 for the murder of Jeffrey Parker. Darby shot and killed Parker, who was suicidal, during a mental health call in 2018.
Following Darby's conviction, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said in a statement that he disagreed with the verdict. Huntsville Police Chief also disagreed with the verdict, stating "While we thank the jury for their service in this difficult case, I do not believe Officer Darby is a murderer."
Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard said, "We're very pleased with the jury verdict. We believed in this case. I'm not saying this is a pleasant day for us in the office, but it's a day that justice dictated."