Continuance Granted In Hamilton's Attempted Murder Case

A continuance was requested Wednesday in the case of an Avon Park man charged with attempted second-degree murder.

Defense counsel requested the continuance so defendant Paul Dian Hamilton, 33, could have a competency evaluation.

Hamilton's charge stems from allegations that, in February, he attacked a woman and severely cut her. The victim suffered nerve damage to her hands, as well as severe cuts to her head and chest. Investigators believed both she and Hamilton may have been in a relationship and lived together.

Prosecutors addressed another issue Wednesday, saying they were "getting feedback" that there has been contact between the defendant and the victim, although there was no certainty whether the alleged contact was direct or indirect.

A request was made to the defense to speak with Hamilton and, if he did initiate the contact, see that it is brought to an end. Prosecutors said if it continues they would have to bring the concern before the court in a more formal manner and seek sanctions on the defendant.

The next court appearance for Hamilton is set for Jan. 22.

State Not Seeking Death For Fanning Murder Suspect

Assistant State Attorney Steve Houchin said he would not be seeking the death penalty for Leeann Parker, one of the suspects accused of killing Bryan "Red" Fanning.

The defendant's attorney, David Carmichael, was in court Wednesday for a pretrial conference. She was not present, as she is in custody on an unrelated matter.

Parker, 26, of Lake Wales, faces counts of first-degree murder, arson, kidnapping and robbery. The charges stem from an Aug. 22, 2007, incident, where Fanning's body was found bound inside his trailer at 3301DeSoto City Road after emergency crews responded to a fire there.

There are three other defendants in the case; Terrence Jerome "TJ" Barnett, 27, of Frostproof, Brandon William "LB" Johns, 29, of Avon Park, and Arthur Melvin Aul III, 37, also of Avon Park.

Houchin said one of the co-defendant's trials is set for July and a plea offer was made to Carmichael, "which may or may not result in his client's cooperation."

Carmichael said he wanted to discuss the offer with his client to see what she wants to do. Another pretrial conference was scheduled for March 25.