Jury Recommends Death Penalty for Man Convicted of Killing Sheffield Police Sgt. Nick Risner

According to media reports, a Colbert County jury has unanimously recommended the death penalty for Brian Martin, who was convicted this week in the fatal shooting of Sheffield Police Sgt. Nick Risner.
The 12-member jury reached its decision Friday following a penalty phase that included testimony from members of Risner’s family.
Martin waived his right to present mitigating evidence that could have supported a sentence of life in prison without parole.
The same jury found Martin guilty on all counts Thursday in connection with Risner’s October 2021 shooting death.
Risner was shot while attempting to apprehend Martin, who authorities say was fleeing police after fatally shooting his friend, William Mealback.
The jury’s recommendation will now go to a judge, who is expected to formally impose Martin’s sentence at a later hearing.