Jury hears from families of game warden, killer - abc27 WHTM

When Wildlife Conservation Officer David Grove lost his life on the night of November 11, 2010, his family lost a son, a brother, and a fiance.

His loved ones on Wednesday told a jury in Adams County why everybody seemed to like him. His mother, Lucy Grove, said her son was "very fun-loving, very happy go-lucky."

"He loved being with people," she said. "He loved his job."

The 31-year-old Grove lived a life in which he loved serving and protecting his community. He loved his family and had recently set a wedding date. Just as it seemed his dreams were all coming true, his parents awoke to their worst nightmare.

Lucy Grove told how the Game Commission came to her home and told her husband that David had been killed.

"I remember jumping out of bed and running into the hallway and screaming, 'Please no! Not my David!'" she said.

Now, the man convicted of first-degree murder in David Grove's death could have his own life taken. Christopher Johnson's own loved ones painted a picture of a little boy abandoned by his father, a teenager who got in with the wrong crowd, and a father who they say, despite bouts with depression and alcoholism, loves his little girl.

Pastor Sadie Pounder, who counseled Johnson in jail, also spoke inside the courtroom. Afterwards, she said she doesn't think Johnson's actions should mean his life.

"I think he made a tragic mistake which he realizes also, but his life should not be over," Pounder said. "He has a lot to give to people."

Pounder said she has spoken with Johnson about the possibility that he will be sentenced to death. She said he believes he can lead a meaningful life behind bars by ministering inmates.

"We are hopeful and trusting that God will lead people to believe he has future and could help people," she said.

The jury will have to set aside emotion and make their decision based on the circumstances of the case. They will return to the Adams County Courthouse Thursday morning.  A decision could be made by the end of the day.