Evidence against Grant stands, trial date set
This video is no longer available.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Freddie Grant’s attorney wanted evidence found at Grant’s home, which authorities claim links him to the disappearance of Gabbie Swainson, suppressed. A federal judge felt differently. “We presented what we had,” said John Delgado. “[The judge] made her decision.” Shortly after striking out on each issue he tried to have suppressed in federal court, Freddie Grant’s attorney, John Delgado, prepares for a jury trial for his client on an ammunition charge. That will take place the second week of January. Delgado asked the judge for more time to prepare; his client said no, “January 14th is fine.” “He has a right to a fast and speedy trial. We’ll get ready for it.” Grant’s brother, Johnny Grant, believes his sibling is ready to get out of jail. “Because of his living conditions, he wants to get out of there. That’s my take on it. I don’t know of another reason he would want to expedite his case.” Grant remains in a midlands jail on the ammunition charge. As a convicted felon, he is not allowed to carry weapons or ammo, which police say they discovered during a search in connection with the disappearance of Gabbiee Swainson. Grant is the lone suspect in that case, but has not been formerly charged. Investigators say Gabbiee was taken from her Northeast Richland County home August 18. Bloody duct tape, her DNA and other items were discovered at Grant’s home say police. In court, Grant’s attorney argued cell phone records, a note written by Gabbie Swainson and testimony Gabbiee Swainson’s mother gave, were enough to negate the search warrant. He claimed police were “reckless” in collecting evidence. In the end, the judge did not agree. Gabbie Swainson’s mother, Elvia, left the courtroom without speaking to reporters. Jury selection regarding the federal ammunition charge against Freddie Grant will begin January 10. Local authorities tell ABC Columbia News they are waiting to see how the federal case plays out before levying local kidnapping charges against Grant.
