x
Breaking News
More () »

Prosecution calls defendant's son to stand; Kountze man faces death-penalty in child's murder

Prosecutors say the victim was tortured to death
Jason Wade Delacerda glances at the jury in a Kountze courtroom. He was convicted of capital murder in the death of a 4-year-old girl in 2011.

A group of men and women who listened to detailed testimony about torture that led to the death of a 4-year-old child is hearing testimony today that will be use to decide if the man responsible should get the death penalty. The jury Friday took less than three hours of deliberation to find Jason Wade Delacerda guilty of capital murder in the death of Breonna Nochol Loftin. The young victim had broken bones, bruises and burns when she died in 2011.

The first witness called by the prosecution in the punishment phase is forensic psychiatrist Dr. Lisa Douget. She was called because she interviewed Delacerda twice following his arrest. She said she determined Delacerda was a, “moderate-to-high risk,” of future violent behavior. Defense attorney Ryan Gertz said his client has been a model inmate since his incarceration. He said the doctor’s assessment is not accurate because it does not take into account his behavior since he was taken into custody.

The state brought up Delacerda’s previous convictions which include drug possession, theft and trespassing. Defense Attorney Gertz said that none of Delacerda’s previous convictions are felonies and none are violent crimes. The defense pointed out that all of his convictions are at least 10 years old.

The state called witnesses to the stand to testify about accusations made against Delacerda that did not result in a conviction. Amanda Henderson, a neighbor of Delacerda, testified that Delacerda had a knife fight with a man and was not arrested. A Lumberton police officer testified about arresting Delacerda for marijuana possession. The jury then broke for lunch.

Post-lunch proceedings were brief Monday. Jason Jr., the defendant’s son, took the stand. He testified that he witnessed the victim lose consciousness as a result of abuse. He gave detailed descriptions of various types of abuse that he said took place. Defense attorney Gertz had no questions for the witness. The court adjourned following Delacerda Jr’s testimony.

The punishment phase will continue Tuesday morning before District Court Judge Steven Thomas.

Before You Leave, Check This Out