Parole denied to Stringbean killer

Dave Akeman a.ka. StringbeanWe have a bit of closure on a story that has incensed a good many fans of old time and traditional country music, one which has prompted two posts here on Bluegrass Today this past two weeks.

The Tennesean is reporting today (8/8) that John A. Brown, convicted for the murder of Dave Akeman (a.k.a. Stringbean) and his wife Estelle, has been denied parole by the Tennessee Board of Probation and Parole.

A spokeswoman said this morning that John A. Brown, 57, will not be released after receiving four consecutive “no” votes. He has been recommended for another review in 2011.

Two board members, including chairman Charles Traughber, voted in favor of Brown’s release at a July hearing. The votes prompted an outcry against Brown from former stars of the Opry and fans, who petitioned the four board members who still had to cast their vote.

Read the full piece by Kate Howard online.

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About the Author

John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2004 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.