Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Jurors heard e-mails and text messages Friday in the trial of a man accused of killing a University of South Carolina professor.
Testimony continued in the case of Hank Hawes. Prosecutors say he stabbed to death Professor Jennifer Wilson in August of 2011.
Investigator John Van Houten lead the morning testimonies, reading aloud intimate texts and emails between Wilson and Hawes, who had been in a relationship before the killing.
In one exchange, Wilson seems to ask for distance and time apart.
Wilson: Give me time and space
Hawes: As you wish, I love you Jenny
Wilson: You're killing me
Prosecutors say at one point Wilson broke off the relationship, and Hawes tried to reconcile.
Hawes: Can I stop by for a few minutes
Wilson: No, we can talk on the phone
Hawes: I have no choice but to accept your decision I forgive you and will move on good night and goodbye
Wilson: I think it's best for you to move on
Hawes: I love you.
Wilson: I love you too.
Another topic brought up by prosecutors was Hawes' mental state the day of the murder and beyond. He was placed in a special housing unit (SHU) after being arrested, and was housed in the Richland County jail on suicide watch. Julius Jones, a social worker at the jail, recounted his visit with Hawes, who told him that he denied being suicidal, despite the cuts on his wrist. Jones recalled Hawes saying, "This is the worst thing I've ever seen."
A State Law Enforcement Division employee also spoke about the DNA found on several items in the home including three knives, underwear, and clothing, all with Wilson and Hawes' blood on them.
Pathologist Dr. Bradley Marcus spoke about the wounds and slashes Wilson sustained. Bradley said Wilson was stabbed multiple times and suffered hemorrhaging to the brain. She said Wilson had defense wounds on her hands and forearms.
It's not clear yet when prosecutors will wrap up their case before the defense has its turn.
