‘Trial by jury’ finds man guilty of attempted second degree murder
McKINLEY EARL McGEE
The conviction comes as the result of a trial by jury that began on the morning of July 9 in Clinton.
McGee was convicted of stabbing and attempting to kill his girlfriend, Machel Elaine Avery, on Utica Circle in Oak Ridge on Jan. 12.
The Oak Ridge Police Department located and arrested McGee a short time after the attack. Machel Elaine Avery received emergency life-saving medical care and emergency surgery at UT Hospital, recovered from her injuries and was present for the trial.
At the time of trial, McGee was out of custody on bond.
Following the jury verdict of guilty as to all counts, the court granted a revocation of the defendant’s bond and he was immediately taken into custody and is being held in the Anderson County Detention Facility.
He will be sentenced by the court on Sept. 9.
Deputy District Attorney General Tony Craighead tried the case on behalf of the State of Tennessee and Judge Donald Elledge presided over the trial.
The 12 person jury deliberated approximately 58 minutes before returning with their verdict.
Attempted second degree murder carries a sentencing range of between 8 to 30 years.
District Attorney General Dave Clark commented on the verdict, “I am grateful for the fine work of General Craighead, the Oak Ridge Police Department, the court and everyone involved in this trial.
“We believe justice was done.”