Man acquitted in prom party death case

Anthony Perry, 22, of Auburn, was charged with reckless conduct after an investigation showed that he failed to call 911 after discovering Martin passed out on a sofa.

Martin, a senior at Winder Barrow High School, later died of accidental suffocation caused by positional asphyxia. Autopsy results showed that Martin was “acutely intoxicated” at the time of his death.

Barbara Ann Michaels, Perry’s stepmother and the owner of the home where the after prom party was held, was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, maintaining a disorderly house and as a party to the crime of furnishing alcohol to a minor in connection with Martin’s death.

Michaels was sentenced last year to 30 days in jail, four years probation and a $4,000 fine.

Jerry Donta Sanders of Statham was also charged after Martin’s death. Sanders kicked Martin while he was passed out and was charged with simple battery. Sanders was found guilty last May and sentenced to 12 months probation and a $300 fine.

Martin’s parents have announced plans to file a wrongful death suit against Perry and Michaels once the criminal cases are completed.