A South Carolina judge dropped murder charges against Victor Lee Turner and Megan Renee Turner, who were arrested in January in connection with the 1989 cold case death of Justin Lee Turner, Victor’s son. The judge raised concerns about the viability of evidence in the case, leading to the decision.
The Turners were charged approximately 35 years after the body of the 5-year-old boy was discovered near their family’s residence. Circuit Judge Roger Young ruled that the original detective in the case had altered his interpretations of the evidence. Additionally, with over 20 witnesses either deceased or unable to testify, the couple faced challenges in mounting a fair defense and questioning witnesses who alleged they had made incriminating statements.
Prosecutors were barred from pursuing charges against the Turners in the future. Following the dismissal of charges, the Turners maintained their innocence, with Victor Turner expressing relief that the legal ordeal was over while still grieving the situation. Megan Turner reiterated their innocence, stating, “We didn’t do it.”
Judge Young emphasized the circumstantial nature of the evidence in the case, highlighting the reliance on alleged incriminating statements made to third parties. The unavailability of these witnesses for cross-examination was deemed prejudicial to the defense.
The Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office acknowledged the challenges posed by the passage of time in prosecuting cases from decades ago. The Sheriff’s Office affidavit from January revealed that the Turners had falsely reported their son missing, with subsequent investigations pointing to them as the last individuals to have seen Justin alive.
Sheriff Duane Lewis expressed disappointment in the outcome, recognizing the limitations in prosecuting aged cases. The family of Justin Turner, while requesting privacy, lamented the failure of the justice system to deliver closure. They asserted that despite overwhelming evidence, those responsible for Justin’s death evaded earthly justice but would face divine judgment.
