Rodney Reed's fate now in hands of district judge as hearing wraps up

Reed hearing Day 9: State brings forward witness testimony regarding Stites

The state brought forward more witnesses who were close to Stacey, however, it was the testimony that was technically "Off the record" that got all the attention today.

BASTROP, Texas - Stacey Stites' family along with Rodney Reed's has been present each day listening to testimony.

The last day consisted of witness testimony about Stacey Stites' personality at work and excitement to marry Jimmy Fennell. The defense tried to discredit one witness, by highlighting her participation in the "Stacey's Avenger" Facebook group.

The family of Stacey Stites believes it was Rodney Reed who killed her. "There were other victims of Rodney Reed and he was a serial rapist and a murderer," said Debra Oliver, Stacey Stites’ sister.

State has family of Stites and Fennell take the stand in Reed hearing

As Rodney Reed's appeal hearing draws to a close, the state works to change the negative character image of Jimmy Fennell after last week's testimony.

Later the state filed a "bill of exceptions," meaning the three witnesses they brought forward would not be on the record, but the judge said he still could consider it. Vivian Harbottle-Chapman claimed it was Reed who raped her along some railroad tracks in Bastrop. Linda Schlueter claims he assaulted her and stole her car.

"I do feel like this is finally going to start coming to an end. I do feel like Rodney has been given a fair trial and a chance to show all of the evidence they wanted to show," said Oliver.

The defense put in an objection for the judge to throw out the additional testimony, even though it was off the record, because these allegations have not had a day in court and haven't been substantiated.

"I think this should have been over and done with a long time ago. We shouldn't have to keep reliving it, we are the victims," said Demi Nugent, Stites’ daughter.

Forensic pathologists take the stand during Rodney Reed's hearing

Now on the 6th day of Reed's appeal hearing, the state calls two forensic pathologists to the stand to share their opinions on Stacey Stites's death.

It's a tale of two families, both grieving, but one thing in common, justice.

"This is a legal lynching. We are praying for the best, because we want justice, not just for Rodney, but for the Stites family," said Mark Clements, exoneree and friend of the Reed family.

The decision is now in Judge J.D. Lanlgey’s hands. He has until August 31 to make his recommendations to the Court of Criminal Appeals. He will be recommending if Reed is eligible to receive a new trial, or not.

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MORE HEADLINES:
State has family of Stites and Fennell take the stand in Reed hearing
State brings in forensic experts on day seven of Reed hearing
State brings in memory expert in Rodney Reed evidentiary hearing
State calls on law enforcement witnesses in Rodney Reed hearing
Stacey Stites' fiancé takes witness stand for questioning
Day 3 of Rodney Reed's hearing continues to see witness statements
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