Melvin Maxie receives new trial

By Daniel Jones, editor

In an update to a story originally covered by the Sabine Index in January, a judgment issued by 11th Judicial Court Judge Stephen Beasley has ordered a new trial for Melvin Maxie, who was convicted in the murder of Tyruss Thomas. His judgment on the case brings into many legal questions ahead of a vote on a new Louisiana amendment that juries must come up with a unanimous verdict.

Of the many inconsistencies filed by the defense, the court chose to strike many, while focusing on the most contentious. Among the most important is the focus on allegations that the majority verdict scheme for Louisiana jurors is unconstitutional, and that there were three unique standards not followed, in addition to there being a non-resident juror that served. The new trial will require a unanimous jury for conviction.

District Attorney Don Burkett is unpleased by the ruling in a statement released by his office.

“I am disturbed that the local district judge here in Sabine Parish has made a ruling that is contrary to well established case law of both the Louisiana Supreme Court and United States Supreme Court,” Burkett released. “We are examining all of our options at this time. In the meantime, my office will continue to fight for justice for victims of crime as we always have.”

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