INDIANAPOLIS — One of three men accused in the 2015 killing of Amanda Blackburn, a pastor's pregnant wife, has been convicted of murder.
Marion Superior Court Judge Grant Hawkins found Larry Jo Taylor guilty of two counts of murder but not guilty of a third in the death of Amanda Blackburn after a four-day bench trial. Taylor was also acquitted of a robbery charge, but found guilty on other charges, including:
- Burglary
- Theft where value of property is between $750 and $50k — three counts
- Robbery resulting in serious bodily injuring
- Criminal confinement
- Burglary of a dwelling — two counts
- Auto theft
- Carrying a handgun without a license
“We are pleased with today’s verdict and that we are finally able to bring justice for Amanda and her family," Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said in an emailed statement. "It has taken a tremendous amount of patience and grace to get to this moment. This case would not have been possible without cooperation from the community and their continued support over the past several years."
Taylor is one of three people accused of Blackburn's murder.
Hawkins twice declared a mistrial in the case. The first happened in December 2021 during jury selection after some of the jurors told the judge they had information about the case and victim "that could have tainted their decision."
Taylor was charged with murder, burglary, theft, robbery, criminal confinement and other crimes in the Nov. 10, 2015, shooting that killed Blackburn, 28, who was 12 weeks pregnant at the time.
A sentencing hearing was scheduled for Oct. 14.
WRTV Reporter Vic Ryckaert contributed to this report.
-
Purdue launches new sports management program amid boom in industry
The Circle City is considered the amateur sports capital of the world, which is why Purdue University is launching a new master's program to make sure people are fully trained to manage the demand.Hamilton County, Town of Sheridan at odds over road funding
Tensions between the town of Sheridan and Hamilton County officials have escalated over road funding responsibilities.Hoosiers rally at the statehouse and urge lawmakers to protect Medicaid
The rally focused on Senate Bill 2 which would require Medicaid recipients to all users to re-apply for Medicaid coverage quarterly.1 person in critical condition following south Indy shooting
One person is in critical condition following a shooting on the south side of Indianapolis on Tuesday.