Judge Henry Latham delivered the verdict this morning in a Scott County courtroom packed with Breasia’s family, wearing purple in honor of the Davenport girl.
In an emotional statement, the judge described the evidence from the 2 1/2 week bench trial, and explained why he didn’t immediately deliver the verdict.
"I could simply read the verdict and file my written decision, I've chosen not to do that today," he said. "I think this case, due to the crime involved, is very important and I find that it's appropriate that I read the entire decision today."
During the trial, the prosecution’s witnesses included police officers, FBI agents, crime scene technicians, and forensic anthropologists. Most notably, Breasia’s brother and Dinkins’ son, "D.L.", testified.
Judge Latham said 11-year old D.L.’s testimony was especially damning, and that he found all the testimony credible, except for D.L.’s testimony that the boy saw Dinkins shoot Breasia.
"These findings by the court are overwhelmingly supported by all the evidence provided by the state's witnesses, particularly the brave testimony provided by D.L. in his statements to law enforcement," he said.
"D.L. was instrumental in solving the murder and kidnapping of his sister, Breasia."
Breasia was reported missing in July 2020, after a sleepover at Dinkins’ girlfriend’s apartment with her brother, D.L. Her body was found eight months later near DeWitt.
The 51-year old Dinkins was charged at that time and pleaded not guilty.
The first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping charges carry mandatory sentences of life without parole. Sentencing is set for October 11th.
