Smith to learn fate as penalty phase of trial nears its end

The defense could rest its case as early as today in the penalty phase of a Calhoun Co. capital murder trial.  Nicholas Smith of Anniston is the first of three suspects to be tried for kidnapping, robbing and murdering Wellborn Elementary School teacher Kevin Thompson.   Monday, Smith's mother testified that Smith had an especially horrific childhood.  She  testified that Smith was sexually abused at a young age and that when he was 13 he drove her to the liquor store. The woman admitted she once even smoked pot with her son when he was 14.The defense is expected to call a number of experts to the stand this morning.  Tyrone Thompson, who is not related to the victim, and Jovan Gaston are also charged with capital murder in Kevin Thompson's death and face separate trials over the next year.  The jury, which convicted smith last Tuesday, must determine whether Smith will face the death penalty of be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.