MARION, Ark. — A Crittenden County jury has found Lorenzo Allen guilty of First Degree Murder and an enhancement for the use of a firearm in the commission of the crime, after a two-day trial that ended on August 23, 2023.
Circuit Judge Randy Philhours sentenced Allen to an aggregate of 65 years in prison, following the jury’s recommendation.
Prosecuting Attorney Sonia F. Hagood and Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Gina Nelson led the case against Allen for the murder of Donna Christley on October 29, 2022. Nelson expressed gratitude toward the jury’s decision, emphasizing a commitment to community safety and the rule of law.
The case stems from the incident when Allen broke into Christley’s home at approximately 10:00 p.m. on the night of the crime. After a confrontation outside, Allen shot Christley on her carport doorstep and fired another shot into the living room, knowing that four minors and Christley’s twin daughters were present.
In addition to the murder charge, Allen was convicted of a Terroristic Act and six counts of Aggravated Assault on the victims in the home. The sentencing marks a significant moment in what has been a deeply troubling case, reflecting ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for violent crimes.
Hagood and Nelson thank the jury for their service and the West Memphis Police Department for their investigation.
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