Tyesha Wayne, a 41-year-old Sahuarita woman, is facing a prolonged legal battle after being accused of shooting her boyfriend, Daniel Walker, seven times in their shared home’s garage in Madera Highlands last August. The charges against Wayne include first-degree murder and disorderly conduct.

Allegations of Misrepresentation During Indictment

Defense attorney Dawn Priestman raised concerns about the integrity of the grand jury indictment, claiming that Deputy Pima County Attorney Lew Brandes provided misleading information. Priestman asserts that Brandes presented “absolute” and “probable” lies to the grand jury, which the defense plans to contest during the trial.

Despite The Claims Of The Defense

Regardless of the claims of the defense, evidence suggests that Tyesha Wayne gunned down an unarmed man who was leaving the house. We covered this in an earlier article. The facts just don’t line up with Wayne’s narrative.

Tyesha Wayne Claims Self-Defense, But Facts Don’t Line Up

Emerge Center Against Domestic Violence Support

The Emerge Center Against Domestic Violence has expressed support for Wayne, emphasizing the need for understanding domestic violence dynamics. Several of Wayne’s supporters, wearing purple in solidarity with Domestic Violence Awareness month, attended the court session.

Challenging Inculpatory Evidence and Unfair Cross-Examination

Priestman argued that the Sahuarita Police Department selectively presented negative character evidence to undermine Wayne’s justification for the shooting. She claimed in numerous instances that the presented evidence was misleading, such as the alleged manipulation of a garage surveillance camera.

Priestman claims the camera was placed on a charger by Wayne. However, it should be noted that, unless this is a battery powered hidden camera, it should be kept plugged into a power source. Eyewitness testimony contradicts the defense’s narrative as well.

It appears as though Wayne setup a camera in the garage to create an alibi for herself.

Disputed Grand Jury Testimonies

Priestman contested the accuracy of grand jury testimonies, pointing out discrepancies between statements and evidence. The defense highlighted instances where the prosecution claimed Wayne shot Walker multiple times before pausing, while hidden camera footage that was potentially altered indicates a different sequence of events.

Delay in Evidence Disclosure

Priestman expressed frustration over the delayed disclosure of crucial evidence by the state, including information from cell phones and body camera footage. Deputy Pima County Attorney Joseph Ricks countered, stating that most evidence had been provided to the defense by January 25, with ongoing redaction efforts.

Legal Proceedings and Defendant’s Request

Ricks defended the fairness of Brandes’ presentation to the grand jury, asserting that Wayne had ample time to testify, and jurors were allowed to ask questions. Even if a second grand jury is convened, Ricks believes the outcome is unlikely to change.

Defense’s Plea for Relocation

In addition to seeking the dismissal of the murder indictment, Priestman requested the judge’s permission for Wayne, currently on a $150,000 bond, to move back to Mobile, Alabama, pending trial. The defense argued that this would allow Wayne to be closer to family, including her two daughters who have been returned to her care.

Opposition and Safety Concerns

Walker’s mother opposed Wayne’s relocation, expressing fear for her safety and the potential risk to her family in North Carolina. Concerns were raised about Wayne possibly fleeing if allowed to move.

Complex Legal Landscape Ahead

As the legal battle unfolds, the case remains intricate, with disputes over evidence, grand jury proceedings, and the defendant’s request for relocation. The complexity of the situation underscores the challenges that lie ahead in determining the truth behind the tragic events leading to Daniel Walker’s death.