THOMASVILLE, Ga. — The spokesman for the family of a Thomasville woman whose body was found after several days of searching last year said family members understand why the death penalty is not being pursued for her accused killer.

“It is my understanding the death penalty is under attack in every state in our great nation as cruel and unusual punishment,” said Nick Abiusi, son-in-law of Deanna Shirey, whose body was found buried in a shallow grave at Robert Carter’s residence in July 2018. Carter stands accused of killing Shirey.

If Carter received the death penalty, and it were overturned in states that still have it, resulting alternative punishment might not be as severe as spending the rest of his life in prison, said Abiusi, a West Palm Beach, Florida, resident.

Carter was indicted on 21 counts Thursday related to Shirey’s death and in hostage situations at Thomasville and Ochlocknee residences.

Among the counts Carter was indicted on are felony murder and four counts of armed robbery. Southern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Brad Shealy said that if Carter is found guilty of felony murder, the maximum penalty is life without parole.

Armed robbery carries a maximum punishment of life in prison. Shealy said two armed robbery convictions could result in Carter being sentenced to an additional 60 years in prison.

Carter previously was convicted of child molestation. Shirey was 70 years old.

Abiusi said Carter committed crimes against the elderly and children.

“I don’t think he will see an easy road in prison,” Abiusi said. “Ultimately, he will have to answer to God for these crimes. That punishment would be much worse than anything we could do.”

Carter had performed handyman work for Shirey and for the Thomasville woman and Ochlocknee family he is accused of binding and holding hostage.

Shirey, a widow, had three children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

“We are pleased with the grand jury’s indictment on all charges and look forward to his conviction. It has always been our family’s desire that Carter never be allowed to hurt anyone else like he has hurt the families in this case,” Abiusi said. “A conviction won’t bring our mom back or undo the pain inflicted on the other families last July, but it will protect the community. It is our prayer that a conviction on all charges will help all of the families involved to be able to try and heal from these tragedies.”  

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820