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Grand jury determines Wood County deputy was justified in shooting

PARKERSBURG — The actions of a deputy who shot and killed a man in October were justified, the Wood County Grand Jury ruled Thursday.

The grand jury heard evidence concerning a shooting involving Lt. J. W. Allen with the Wood County Sheriff’s Office and the deceased, Paul M. Bailey, 21, of Walker, on Oct. 17, 2020, in Davisville near Stillwell Road and Grant Hill Road, according to the grand jury report signed by the foreman.

“Given the fact that this is an officer-involved shooting and the legitimate interest of the public and its right to know, especially in matters such as this, the grand jury felt it appropriate to prepare and hereby tenders to the court its report containing findings in this matter,” the report said.

The jury heard evidence from the special investigating officer, 1st Sgt. Michael Anderson of the West Virginia State Police, South Charleston detachment, a car camera, witness statements, reports, photographs and test results, the report said.

“The grand jury, after considering all of the evidence and a period of deliberation, determined that the actions of Jason Allen were justified and no criminal charges shall be brought,” the report said.

The shooting occurred following a disturbance on Stillwell Road where Allen responded, State Police said last year. Allen was attempting to detain Paul Bailey when Shawn Bailey, Paul Bailey’s brother, punched Allen in the face, a criminal complaint in Wood County Magistrate Court said.

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