Marion County woman's charges dropped in trial

By Staff
Jonathan Willis
A Hamilton woman arrested on drug charges in 2007 saw most of those charges dropped during her trial Wednesday.
Lisa Williams, 39, of 425 Redwood Road in Hamilton, was charged with production of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia on Nov. 28, 2007, after authorities found her at a former residence where a working meth lab was.
Three other individuals pleaded guilty to related charges in the case.
Williams, however, maintained her innocence telling investigators that she had dropped by her former residence at 10331 U.S. 43 to collect rent money from her ex-boyfriend.
"It really is one of those fates of time where the wrong person was at the wrong place," Tuscumbia attorney Billy Underwood said.
During her trial this week in Franklin County Circuit Court, Williams maintained her innocence.
After three state's witnesses testified, prosecutors decided to offer a plea agreement in which the three larger charges were dropped. Williams pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor of possession of drug paraphernalia.
"This is one of those cases where as testimony developed, it became apparent that there was a possibility the defendant really did not know what was going on at that house," said Franklin County Assistant District Attorney Doug Evans.
Underwood said his client is relieved to see the charges dismissed.
"Ms. Williams stated before the trial that she was innocent and that no one would be able to say she frequented that house," Underwood said.
"Franklin County is blessed with a fine district attorney, Joey Rushing, and assistant, Doug Evans. When they state saw the presentation of the three witnesses I think they made the right decision in settling this case."