EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. () — Known as one of Georgia’s most unsettling child abuse cases, the Elwyn Crocker case returns to court in Effingham County today. Almost seven years have passed since the discovery of two children buried in their backyard, and hearings are resuming.
Both sides could finally move forward with key decisions that could shape how the case unfolds at trial.
You may recall that in June, the last scheduled hearing was postponed because the defense for the Crockers indicated they were unprepared. Today, lawyers are anticipated to argue over what evidence will be permitted for the jury’s view, including crime scene photos and digital documents.
Elwyn Crocker Sr. faces charges related to the deaths of his two teenage children: Mary and Elwyn Jr., whose remains were unearthed in 2018 behind the family’s home in Guyton. He is charged with malice murder, child cruelty, and concealing a death. If found guilty, he might also be subject to the death penalty.
The hearing on Monday is set to consider motions about whether graphic crime scene photos may be presented to a jury and which electronic devices will be admissible as evidence. Prosecutors assert that the devices indicate shared abuse among family members, whereas the defense seeks to suppress this evidence, arguing about who actually owns the devices.
This will be the first time in weeks that the court is expected to actively address and decide on these issues. Should this happen, it could bring the trial stage closer.
will be in the courtroom today and will keep you updated as the hearing unfolds.
