DELPHI, Ind. — The Carroll County Courthouse looked a little different Thursday, less than 24 hours before a trial more than seven years in the making.
More security areas were in place around the courthouse, where opening statements will be made Friday in the Delphi murders trial. Richard Allen stands accused of killing Abby Williams and Libby German in the city in February 2017.
Restricted areas marked with bright orange barriers and black privacy fencing and tents are in place, all to protect jurors and Allen from the public in the days and weeks to come.
The murder of the two girls near the Monon High Bridge and now the pending trial have weighed on Delphi residents for 7 1/2 years.
"Because Delphi is known for many great things and I hope we get back to that," said Kristen Patz, who works at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Campus.
Patz said her colleagues decided to make a donation to Delphi police, supplying officers with water, sports drinks and Mountain Dew.
"They've supported us, and we support them. So this opportunity — we know this trial coming up is going to take a lot of their time and energy, and we wanted to just do something special to impact them and provide them with special treats," she said.
The police department shared photos of the donation on social media, thanking the company and calling them "a great community partner."
"Oh, they were overjoyed!" Patz said.
Other businesses in downtown Delphi are collecting donations, too, supplying with snacks, emotional and psychological support and even haircuts, with more companies expected to pitch in in the weeks to come.
Allen's trial is expected to last through Nov. 15, when Patz said Delphi will finally start a new chapter.
"Just healing. Healing. I hope that peace is brought to the town and healing and we can all continue to support each other through it — now during the trial, while the media is here, and then the years and months and weeks following."