Trial of murder suspect “Big John” imminent – Lowndes Signal

Nearly five years after the murder, the suspect accused of killing popular Lowndes County Sheriff John “Big John” Williams is preparing for his trial in October.

The trial of Williams Chase Johnson for the 2019 shooting is scheduled to begin Oct. 7 in Tuskegee. About 400 potential jurors will be called for screening to ensure a jury of 100 is available for selection. Judge Bert Rice will preside over the trial in a Macon County courtroom.

According to District Attorney Charlotte Tesmer, a trial hearing was held in late August. Judge Bert Rice will preside over the trial, which has been moved to Macon County to ensure Johnson receives a fair hearing.

“The judge has scheduled motion days to keep both sides on track so they are ready in October,” Tesmer said.

Williams has pleaded not guilty on the grounds of mental illness or defect. If convicted, he faces life in prison or the death penalty.

“We're working with Attorney General Steve Marshall's office,” Tesmer said. “It's very unusual for the Attorney General's office and the District Attorney's office to try cases hand in hand. Marshall could come in and take a case, but he didn't. He offered to help and we got two of his best lawyers. I have complete confidence in our litigation partners.”

Johnson was 18 years old when he was taken into custody after Williams was fatally shot in the Hayneville QV on November 23, 2019. He is being held in the Elmore County Jail pending trial.