Alabama Appeals Court Upheld Delp Murder Conviction
The court rejected arguments that the trial judge erred in refusing a defense of others instruction for Logan Delp.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Violence
The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals has affirmed the capital murder convictions of Logan McKinley Delp. Delp is currently serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for his role in the 2020 killing of Anthony Larry Sheppard.
Why it matters
The ruling confirms that the trial judge acted correctly in declining to instruct jurors on a defense of others argument. Prosecutors established that Delp was contracted by Jaclyn Skuce to kill Sheppard to stop him from gaining custody of their child.
The appeals court upheld multiple capital murder convictions, including charges for pecuniary gain and shooting into a dwelling. The defendant remains incarcerated at the Donaldson Correctional Facility following his conviction in October 2025.
The players
Logan McKinley Delp
He is a convicted murderer currently serving a life sentence without parole at the Donaldson Correctional Facility.
Jaclyn Skuce
She was convicted on three counts of capital murder for her role in contracting the killing of Anthony Larry Sheppard.
Anthony Larry Sheppard
He was the victim of a contract killing in Hartselle, Alabama, after he failed to appear for a custody hearing.
The details
Anthony Larry Sheppard was killed by multiple gunshot wounds after Skuce sought to prevent his involvement in a custody case. The court determined that evidence did not support a claim of imminent threat or physical harm that would justify a defense of others instruction.
Timeline
July 24, 2020: Anthony Larry Sheppard was killed in Hartselle.
October 2025: Logan McKinley Delp was found guilty of capital murder.
September 18, 2026: The state appeals court upheld Delp's capital murder convictions.
Legal Context
This decision reinforces the strict interpretation of jury instructions in Alabama capital murder cases, following the precedent set by the state's high court. It underscores how contract-for-hire killings are processed within the Alabama justice system.
The case emphasizes the importance of established evidentiary standards in murder trials. Residents should note that the legal process regarding this incident remains finalized following the appellate review.
The takeaway
The appellate court's refusal to recognize a defense of others claim underscores the rigorous burden of proof required in capital cases. This ruling serves as a reminder of the permanent legal consequences associated with contract-based criminal actions.
Further reading
For more background on regional criminal proceedings, visit the Violence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHNT.
