Victim’s girlfriend testifies in Dillard murder trial

LISBON — A woman described how her boyfriend was shot to death over a deal to sell clothing.

Shirley Hackney started her testimony today in Columbiana County Common Pleas Court by telling the jury she has been diagnosed as being bipolar but is successfully using medication.

She also told the jury she now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder since the shooting of Jamie A. Farley of East Liverpool about 9 p.m. April 22, 2008, in Wellsville.

Farley, 35, died at East Liverpool City Hospital after being shot twice outside 906 Commerce St., the home of Eric M. Dillard, 31, of Wellsville.

Dillard is on trial, charged with murder with a gun specification and illegal possession of a weapon because of previous drug conviction. He could get 15 years to life in prison if convicted of the murder charge. He claims he shot Farley in self-defense.

Hackney described how a simple business investment with Dillard eventually led to gunplay.

For the complete story, see Saturday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com