The jury is set to resume its deliberations on Friday regarding the sentencing of Leland Williams, the man who shot a Tarrant County sheriff’s deputy two years ago. This decision will determine the consequences for Williams, who pleaded guilty to the crime.
The proceedings began on Thursday afternoon when the jury commenced deliberations around 1:30 p.m. They are tasked with deciding the appropriate punishment for Williams, who inflicted serious injuries on an off-duty deputy at a Fort Worth credit union in 2023.
During the trial, Williams was present with his legal team in the Tarrant County courtroom. He had previously admitted guilt to the charge of aggravated assault against a peace officer.
The closing arguments presented on Thursday set the stage for the jury’s decision. Prosecutors advocated for the maximum penalty of life imprisonment, arguing that the severity of the crime warranted such a sentence. In contrast, the defense contended that Williams has shown remorse and should receive a lesser punishment.
Deputy Brent Brown, a dedicated member of the Tarrant County sheriff’s department for 14 years, attended the hearing. He has since made a remarkable recovery, returning to full duty after undergoing two significant surgeries and navigating an emotional healing process.
After several hours of deliberation on Thursday, the jury adjourned for the day and plans to reconvene at 8 a.m. on Friday to continue their discussions.
Earlier in the week, the defense indicated to the jury that while Williams should face prison time for his actions, a life sentence was excessive.
During the defense’s arguments, attorney J. Eric Nichols emphasized, “He did a terrible thing, and he needs to be punished for it, and not a slap on the wrist. But it’s also not life in prison.”
The incident that led to these proceedings occurred in November 2023 at the Fort Worth Community Credit Union on Brentwood Stair Road. Surveillance footage captured Williams appearing agitated. He initially left the bank but returned a short time later.
Witnesses observed him pacing before he approached Deputy Brown, whom he had briefly conversed with moments before the shooting took place.
