The defense called 10 witnesses to the stand, on Holly’s behalf, during this punishment phase.
The defense said Holly lived in 39 different homes between 1984-2002 and changed/moved schools 23 times. The defense says DHS was contacted 16 times regarding neglect or abuse of Holly, but he was never removed from the home.
The defense called one witness to testify on the behalf of #ZachHolly , she talked about his unstable childhood in #AR & #California— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
Three of Holly’s former educators testified, all saying they never met any of his family members.
The defense presented letters #ZachHolly wrote to his mother, Ginger Simmons, while incarcerated. A witness says he frequently writes.— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
Former DHS investigator, Joy Morris, talked about a report of neglect when #ZachHolly was 13yo.She says “things seemed to be getting better”— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
Holly’s step-aunt (a year older than him) testified to the constant abuse & drug use #ZachHolly endured. #HollyTrial #capitalmurder— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
#ZachHollys maternal grandfather testified to not witnessing any abuse or drug use. #HollyTrial #capitalmurder— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
#ZachHolly sitting in his chair tentatively listening as each witness testifies on his behalf. #capitalmurder #HollyTrial— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
Holly’s oldest brother Kenny also testified Thursday.
#ZachHollys brother, Kenny, says he still sees him as his younger brother, but says he committed a “heinous act” & he’s “angry with him”— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
#ZachHollys brother, Kenny, will be recalled to the stand tmrw morning, their mother, Ginger, is also expected to testify. #HollyTrial— Connie (@connie_gonz) May 21, 2015
Court is in recess until Friday morning, which will be the third day of the punishment phase.
