Day 1: Witness sequestered in Zach Adams’ post-conviction hearing

HARDIN COUNTY, Tenn. — We have continuing coverage of the post-conviction hearing of Zachary Adams. This case is in relation to the 2017 Holly Bobo trial.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: (05/19/2025) Day 1: Post-conviction hearing for Zach Adams begins

In a 2023 video, Jason Autry and Dr. Kate Spirko were talking when Autry recanted his statement.

However, the court says that this video is hearsay. The court also says, along with that, that Dr. Spirko’s documents are not discoverable and if she were an expert then her documents would be discoverable.

“The court finds that the petitioner did not present adequate proof to show that Dr. Spirko’s presence is essential to the presentation of Mr. Adam’s case. Therefore Dr. Spirko will be sequestered with the other witnesses in this hearing,” said Judge Brent Bradberry, 24th district circuit court.

The prosecution requested a motion that this video would not be used as evidence towards the case.

“But I am not certain as to whether that will happen or not at this stage so I am going to reserve ruling on that, but at this stage the motion to quash is granted,” said Bradberry.

Judge Brent Bradberry shared that because Autry was not under oath there is no support of reliability to the statement. In support of the motion, along with other proof the court shares.

“The statement made by Mr. Autry is so far tended to subject the declarant from civil or criminal liability in the form of a charge of perjury that renders his claim invalid,” said Bradberry.

In the video, it was explained to Autry that he would face liability. He then used his 5th amendment. This video of Autry’s recantment would have been used by Adam’s lawyers.

“What Mr. Autry’s video showed in December of 2023 was sufficient for the state to request council appointed to him and for Mr. Autry’s to not have to be asked questions that the recanted video showed,” said Defense Attorney Doug Bates.

“Given Mr. Autry’s federal case, given what he came in this court room in 2017 and said. What’s the harm in having an attorney advise him of his 5th amendment rights?” said the prosecuting attorney.

Monday afternoon, the prosecutor wrapped up the first day of trial. Witness testimony will continue on Tuesday. The hearing will continue beginning at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

For more Hardin County news, click here.