Court reconvenes for Zach Adams’ hearing, new witness introduced

August 14, 2025

Nyana Whitelaw,

HARDIN COUNTY, Tenn. — The continuation of proof in the Adam’s hearing began early Thursday.

Defense Attorney, Doug Bates, called his next witness, Beth Boswell, criminal chief assistant U.S. attorney, who was the lead prosecutor in the original Holly Bobo case.

Bates argued that Terry Britt, a convicted sex offender and law enforcement’s previous lead suspect, is more likely responsible for the crime, presenting evidence that points away from his client.

In an investigative report, a wiretapped call was detailed between Britt and his sister, referred to as SM.

“SM asked if TB [Terry Britt] had a black light–said the black light would show blood and show where the law may have sprayed luminol. SM told TB to be careful what he said because they might have phones bugged and they might have the house bugged too,” said Boswell.

On January 18, 2012, law enforcement took several measures to obtain evidence of Britt’s guilt, including search warrants, wiretaps and more.

According to one report, the audio equipment failed as authorities could not make out their conversations. Britt was eventually ruled out by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

“And not only is he a sex offender on paper, but you just look at him, and you get creeped out. Is that fair enough?,” said Amy P. Weirich, special counsel with the 25th Judicial district.

“Yes,” said Boswell.

“What evidence could you present to a jury of 12 people as to Terry Britt’s guilt in the kidnapping, rape, and murder of Holly Bobo?” asked Weirich.

“None,” said Boswell.

As cross-examination continued, Weirich connected information about the defendant that Terry Dicus, former TBI agent, excluded from reports.

Boswell testified that Dicus had tunnel vision on Britt and did not thoroughly follow up on other leads.

“This is in 2014, you’re learning about bizarre behavior of the defendant relative to a mattress, running from law enforcement, and washing a mattress and a car out front in a hour and a half,” said Weirich.

“Yes,” said Boswell.

“Would you have liked to have that information in 2011 as a prosecutor?,” said Weirich.

“Yes,” said Weirich.

According to an IR, a THP officer sat on Adams’ grandad’s home and watched him sprint away. Prosecution also established FBI Agent Ross witnessed scratches on Adams’ arm that were never filed.

For more local crime coverage, click here.