Andrea Yates' Attorney Hired by Joshua Allen Junior

KFDM News has learned a man accused of murdering his wife at their home in west Beaumont hired the attorney who represented Andrea Yates in her nationally publicized trial during which she was found not guilty by reason of insanity.

Yates was charged with murder in the drowning deaths of her five children.

Joshua Allen Junior, 39, is accused of murdering his wife, Martha Nicole Allen, 27, on Tuesday, August 11 at their home on Rosewood before turning the gun on himself.

Joshua Allen Junior has hired George Parnham to represent him.

Parnham gained national recognition by defending Andrea Yates in her Houston murder trial.

Two years ago, a jury found Yates not guilty by reason of insanity in the drowning deaths of her five children. A judge placed her in a psychiatric hospital.

In a telephone conversation Monday with KFDM News, Parnham said it's far too early to know what specific arguments he'll make on behalf of Allen.

He says Allen will likely be hospitalized for about six more weeks.

"It's tragic no matter how you look at it," Parnham told KFDM News.

"The main concern we have is his well being. But topping the list is the welfare of these kids. They've gone through something where they'll carry this emotionally for the rest of their lives."

Parnham said he's just beginning to become familiar with the facts and allegations surrounding the case.