Louisville, KY, September 26, 2025
News Summary
A motion for a retrial has been approved in the case of James Hendron, who was convicted of murdering his son Austin on Father’s Day in 2018. Following a jury’s guilty verdict and a recommended life sentence, Judge Goodman has allowed for another trial instead of moving to sentencing. This unexpected decision has left the victim’s family in distress, while Hendron’s defense argues prosecutorial misconduct. The Kentucky Court of Appeals upheld the conviction, adding complexity to an already tense situation as the family seeks justice.
Louisville, KY – A flicker of hope for a retrial emerged recently in the case of James Hendron, who was convicted of murdering his son, Austin Hendron, on Father’s Day in 2018. After a jury found Hendron guilty in February 2024 and recommended a life sentence, Judge Julie Goodman approved a motion for a new trial instead of proceeding with sentencing scheduled for June 2024. This unexpected move has left the family of the victim feeling defeated each time they enter the courtroom.
During the trial, Hendron’s legal team argued that the prosecution relied on misleading testimony to secure a conviction. However, prosecutors dismissed these claims and stood by the integrity of their case. Following the trial, the Kentucky Court of Appeals reinstated Hendron’s guilty verdict in June, noting no prosecutorial misconduct, and stated that Judge Goodman had erred in granting the retrial.
Hendron’s defense team responded by filing a motion for discretionary review with the Kentucky Supreme Court in July. On Thursday morning, Hendron made an appearance in court where his appeal was still pending. The timeline for resolution remains unclear, with Tracy Curtsinger, Austin’s mother, suggesting that it could take six months to a year for the court to decide whether sentencing will move forward. Meanwhile, she and her family continue to pray for justice.
The next court hearing for Hendron is set for January 8, 2025, although if the Kentucky Supreme Court reaches a decision before this date, the hearing could happen sooner.
Case Timeline
- June 17, 2018: James Hendron allegedly shoots and kills his son Austin on Father’s Day.
- February 2024: A jury finds Hendron guilty of murder and recommends a life sentence.
- June 2024: Judge Goodman approves a motion for a retrial instead of carrying out sentencing.
- June 2024: Kentucky Court of Appeals reinstates Hendron’s guilty verdict and denies claims of prosecutorial misconduct.
- July 2024: Hendron’s attorney files a motion for discretionary review with the Kentucky Supreme Court.
- January 8, 2025: Next scheduled hearing for Hendron.
Background Context
The tragic events of Father’s Day 2018 have continued to resonate deeply for those involved, particularly Tracy Curtsinger, who now battles through the frustrating judicial processes in search of closure. As the case heads into another potentially lengthy review period, emotions run high as the family seeks both justice and healing.
The legal proceedings following such a serious conviction have highlighted the complexities and nuances of criminal justice in Kentucky, raising discussions about the efficacy of the legal system and the roles of juries, prosecutors, and defense teams in determining the fate of individuals charged with severe crimes.
Conclusion
The Hendron murder case exemplifies the intricacies of the appeal process and the challenges families face in the aftermath of violent crime. As the situation progresses, the attention will remain on the decisions made by the Kentucky Supreme Court and what they may mean for justice for Austin Hendron’s family.
FAQs
What charges was James Hendron found guilty of?
James Hendron was found guilty of murder for allegedly shooting and killing his son, Austin, on Father’s Day in 2018.
What is the status of Hendron’s sentencing?
Hendron’s sentencing has been postponed due to a motion for retrial that was granted by Judge Goodman. A hearing is now scheduled for January 8, 2025.
What did the Kentucky Court of Appeals decide?
The Kentucky Court of Appeals reinstated Hendron’s guilty verdict and disagreed with claims of prosecutorial misconduct. They also stated that Judge Goodman abused her discretion in ordering a new trial.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gang Involvement in Federal Witness Murder Uncovered
Lexington Recognized for Travel, Education, and Community Efforts
Kentucky Court Upholds Murder Conviction of James Hendron
Additional Resources
- WKYT: Delays Continue in Lexington Murder Case
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County Teen Indicted on Double Murder Charges
- Lex18: Fayette County Teen Indicted on Double Murder Charges
- Kentucky Today: Lexington Teen Charged with 2 Counts of Murder
- Wikipedia: Criminal Justice
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