The Beckley Messenger, Beckley, W. Va.
Tuesday, November 26, 1912

SIDNA ALLEN FOUND GUILTY

Carroll County, Va., Man Convicted of Second Degree Murder

Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Penitentiary at Richmond--Friday November 29th Set By Governor To Review Petitions For Father and Son

WYTHEVILLE, Va., Nov. 22--Sidna Allen, leader of the Allen gang of outlaws, which shot up the Carroll county court, was found guilty of murder in the second degree today and sentenced to serve fifteen years in the penitentiary at Richmond.

Richmond, Va., Nov. 22--Today at noon Governor Mann received at the executive office a delegation composed of Judge N. H. Hairston and R. H. Wills, attorneys for Floyd and Claude Allen; the Rev. George W. McDaniels, pastor of the First Baptist church, spiritual adviser of the condemned men; Polk Miller and W. S. Forbes, and discussed with them the many petitions which have came to him asking commutation of the sentences of the father and son, who otherwise will go to the electric chair December 13 for participation in the Hillsville judiciary slaughter.

Gov. Mann announced that on Friday, November 29, he would receive any one interested in the case of the men and hear what was to be said. It is understood that the petitions now in the governor's hands are signed by over 40,000 citizens of the state.

Judge D. W. Bolen, chief witness against the Allens, in a lengthy letter to the governor, reviews the case and in reference to Claude Allen, says;

"I believe, that all things considered, the intelligent brain and conscience of Virginia would revolt at his electrocution."