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‘Free Ryan Widmer’ group to hold fundraiser

2nd juror in Widmer bathtub murder case influenced by ‘experiments’

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By Denise G. Callahan, Staff Writer 9:09 AM Thursday, June 4, 2009

Warren County prosecutors have until early next week to present their own juror affidavits in the Ryan Widmer bathtub murder case.

Warren County Common Pleas Judge Neal Bronson ruled on May 20 that he would consider affidavits filed by the defense that state some jurors were swayed by experiments a few jurors undertook to determine how long it took them to dry after bathing.

The crux of the nine-day trial, where Widmer, 28, was found guilty of drowning his young bride Sarah in the bathtub of their Hamilton Twp. home, was the drowning scene was virtually dry.

Bronson denied the defense motion for an acquittal, but said he would consider the sworn juror statements, as he ponders whether Widmer deserves a new trial. He gave prosecutors 21 days — Tuesday, June 9 — to produce their own statements.

Meanwhile, the “Free Ryan Widmer” group has scheduled another fundraiser to support the legal defense fund. The “Circle of Love” event will be held from 6 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, June 6 at Brylans, 6926 Main Street (Ohio 32), in Newtown.

“The Circle of Love is a fun, family-friendly event on the beautiful grounds and gardens of Brylans, including a DJ, corn hole tournament, silent auction, refreshments, appetizers, coffee bar, cake walk and a special candle lighting ceremony,” a release reads.

There will also be a “Bid ‘n Buy” with sports memorabilia signed by Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis, and kicker Shane Graham and a number of other celebrities. Items such as gift certificates, Reds and Bengals tickets and a host of other items will be auctioned as well.

The group has held two candlelight vigils, one in Butler County and another on Fountain Square in Cincinnati.

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