By Gary Ogle
gogle@wbcowqel.com

The man accused of killing four Bucyrus residents on or around Labor Day weekend was back in court on Monday. Donald Hoffman appeared with his attorneys, Robert and Rolf Whitney of Richland County, in Crawford County Common Pleas Court for a pre-trial conference and a motion for a mitigation expert.

Hoffman appeared in court wearing a protective vest under his orange jail jumpsuit, a fresh haircut and under heavy security. Those in attendance included family members of the men Hoffman is accused of killing – Freelin Hensley, Bill Jack Chapman, Darrell Lewis and Jerald Smith.

Hoffman is charged in a 21-count indictment that includes eight counts of aggravated murder which could result in the death penalty if convicted on any of those charges. Crawford County Prosecutor Matt Crall has already indicated he intends to seek the death penalty.

Judge Russell Wiseman reported various dates had been set; including deadlines for attorney to submit suggested jury questionnaires and motions for evidentiary hearings. Wiseman also set the date for a five-day jury trial beginning Nov. 17.

However, he also issued a warning to all those in the courtroom that the date was set primarily to meet statutory requirements.

“Realistically, it’s not likely the psychological test results will be back in time for that trial date,” Wiseman said, noting there would not be enough time for defense attorneys and prosecutors to go over those results.

Hoffman has already signed a waiver to his constitutional rights for a speedy trial.

Wiseman also ruled on a defense motion for a mitigation expert. Such a person would help the defense examine what circumstances or conditions might exist that would benefit Hoffman’s case if presented.

County Prosecutor Matt Crall had no objection to that motion which Wiseman then granted. Rolf Whitney said the defense has been in touch with a mitigation expert but has not yet hired one.

Assistant Prosecutor Ryan Hoovler and defense attorney Robert Whitney confirmed that discovery of evidence has been provided to the defense as required.

Wiseman then continued the case.

Following the hearing, one of the victim’s family members, Freelin Hensley’s daughter Donna Hardymon, spoke about Hoffman’s treatment while incarcerated at the Crawford County Justice Center.

“”We do not feel he should be getting all the freedom to write letters and being around the public,” Hardymon said. She indicated Hoffman has been in contact with a former girlfriend and around other inmates.

“That man has no right to be around other prisoners in the jail,” Hardymon said. “He’s a serial killer.”