LONGVIEW, Texas (KLTV) – The defense is continuing its case in the criminal case of Gregory Newson. He was convicted in the 2019 murder of Panola County Deputy Chris Dickerson.

The state is seeking the death penalty, while the defense is asking the jury to sentence Newson to life in prison without parole. These are the only two options for receiving the death penalty in Texas.

The defense called one of Newson’s childhood friends to testify. He talked about growing up with Newson and described him as a “joker.” He explained that they often witness police violence in their neighborhoods.

On behalf of the defence, Dr. Antoinette McGarrahan took the stand. He interviewed Newson and analyzed his mental history. He testified that Newson’s full-scale IQ was 79, which was in the bottom 10% of the population. He concluded that Newson was mentally disabled.

McGarrahan noted that Newson had difficulty with his tests and academic difficulties in the past. He said he had problems with expression and memory. He aced the non-verbal tests the state noted at the cross.

The defense cited Atkins vs. Virginia, a Supreme Court case that banned the execution of mentally disabled people. The state will provide its own psychologist to counter the defense.

Ultimately, the jury will decide whether Newsom is mentally disabled.

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