A Georgia teenager accused of murdering her mother and stepfather was denied bond Tuesday following an emotional court hearing where relatives voiced opposing views on whether she should be released.
Authorities say Sarah Grace Patrick, 17, shot and killed her mother, Kristin Brock, 41, and stepfather, James Brock, 45, inside their Carroll County home on Feb. 20. Their bodies were discovered by Patrick’s 5-year-old sister, after which Patrick called 911, according to Fox 5.
In the days following the murders, Patrick reportedly used social media to raise awareness about the killings, even posting on TikTok as investigators searched for the suspect. She eventually turned herself in on July 8, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office confirmed.
During Tuesday’s two-hour bond hearing, supporters described Patrick as a churchgoing teen with no prior criminal history. Her pastor testified that she had chosen to be baptized and continued attending services regularly, often calling him from jail to pray.
“Hurting someone simply isn’t in her nature or character,” one supporter told the judge, according to FOX 5. “She remained incredibly kind, respectful, and especially patient.”
Prosecutors, however, argued Patrick poses a serious risk if released, saying she could try to intimidate witnesses or flee.
“If the defendant can kill her own parents in such a violent manner, I fear for my own safety and the safety of my family and friends,” Kim Bowling, the victims’ sister, told the court. Patrick’s stepbrother, Trysten Brock, also voiced concerns, saying she would “absolutely attempt to flee rather than stand trial if given the opportunity.”
Judge Dustin Hightower ultimately agreed with prosecutors, ruling Patrick be held without bond, citing a “significant flight risk” and “risk of witness intimidation.”
“This is not daytime ‘Court TV,’ and this is not for entertainment,” Hightower said. “We’re here to simply apply the law … and I’m going to do that to the best of my ability.”
Patrick is being charged as an adult with two counts of murder and two counts of aggravated assault, according to Fox News Digital. Her trial is scheduled to begin Jan. 5, 2026.
