Closing arguments and deliberations started in accused child killer Richard Allen’s murder trial in Delphi Thursday morning.

As CrineOnline previously reported, the bodies of  teen girls Abby Williams and Libby German were found near the Monon High Bridge in 2017, in Delphi. Richard Allen, accused of their murders.

After 17 days of testimony, the prosecution and defense began their closing arguments at 9 a.m. The jury will decide whether to convict Allen of murdering 13-year-old Abby and 14-year-old Libby.

Sixteen residents from Allen County were selected for the jury, with 12 jurors—eight women and four men—participating in the trial, while four alternates, including two men and two women, were also appointed.

Judge Frances Gull told jurors Wednesday that they will receive five hours of closing arguments and jury instructions before beginning deliberations.

Carroll County Prosecutor Nicholas McLeland will likely begin the closing arguments, FOX 58 reports.

Once the prosecution concludes its case, lead defense attorney Bradley Rozzi will present evidence in hopes of proving Allen’s innocence.

McLeland will then deliver his final rebuttal to the jury.

Once the prosecution and defense have made their arguments, Judge Gull will issue final instructions to the jury before they start deliberating.

If convicted, Allen could face a sentence of over 65 years in prison.

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[Feature Photo: Abby and Libby/Handout]