Family of Kendrick Johnson denied witnesses as court case continues

LOWNDES CO., GA (WALB) - On Thursday, a judge denied a request for two witnesses to be questioned in the Kendrick Johnson case.

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This comes after the defense claims key evidence was lost.

Johnson was found dead inside a gym mat at Lowndes High School five years ago.

His family's attorney said Kendrick's internal organs and items belonging to him were lost as he was transported from the state crime lab to the funeral home in Valdosta.

In 2016, the attorney filed a motion to lift two protective orders so he could question the former county coroner and the transporter. But because of scheduling conflicts, a hearing date was never set.

On Thursday, a judge denied that request saying too much time has gone by.

The Johnson family filed multiple lawsuits following Kendrick's death.

Some of those were against the school district, board of education and local officials.

They claim Lowndes County conspired with Johnson's classmates to cover up his death.

Last month the family was ordered to pay legal fees from a wrongful death lawsuit that was dismissed.