ALABAMA
The Randolph Leader
Penny L. Pool
Friends and family members of Community Life Church Pastor Stephen Dean were elated when a jury found him not guilty last week on the charge he sexually abused a then under 12-year-old child.
Fifth Judicial Circuit Judge Tom Young sternly warned the courtroom twice against any kind of display on either side when the verdict was announced.
There was a muffled sound of joy from family, friends and church members who filled the right side of the courtroom as Dean broke into tears.
His attorney William H. Broome of Anniston in his closing argument told the jurors they had to decide who to believe.
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