A jury in the 3rd District Court found Anthony Williams guilty of Evading Arrest or Detention with Previous Conviction and sentenced him to the maximum penalty of 10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Assistant District Attorneys Jeff Herrington and Daynah Fallwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the State.
The trial stemmed from an incident on July 11, 2024, when the Athens Police Department received a report of Williams pointing a firearm at passing vehicles. APD Officer Joshua Davis located Williams walking on Jonathan Street, and Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joshua Rickman and Corporal James Graham arrived to assist. When officers approached, Williams fled but was apprehended after a brief chase by Sgt. Rickman and Officer Davis.
During the punishment phase, jurors learned of Williams' prior convictions, including felony Evading Arrest or Detention with Previous Conviction, Attempted Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility, misdemeanor Evading Arrest, Assaults, Driving While Intoxicated, and Attempted Murder. These previous offenses enhanced his punishment range under state law.
“This case highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration between law enforcement agencies in our community,” said District Attorney Jenny Palmer. “The swift response and coordinated efforts of the Athens Police Department and the Henderson County Sheriff's Office ensured Anthony Williams was apprehended safely and brought to justice. Their partnership exemplifies the dedication of our officers to keeping Henderson County safe.”
This trial was one of two simultaneous jury trials conducted by the Henderson County District Attorney's Office this week.
