PANAMA CITY — Around the time Terry Brazil was killed, Phillip Brock offered to sell precious metals that he said he had buried in his yard, according to testimony on the first day of Brock’s trial on a count of first-degree murder.
Brock told Timothy Steedman he had “bullion” for sale several days before deputies discovered the body of 65-year-old Brazil in his Fountain home on Dec. 27. Brazil had been shot, stabbed and beaten to death, and several of his guns and coin sets were discovered by deputies at Brock’s home nearby. Brazil had been dead for several days before he was found.
Steedman testified Tuesday that he asked Brock how much he wanted for the bullion and Brock said he didn’t know. A few days later, Steedman offered about $30 an ounce for the metal.
Deputy Jason Daffin testified about finding a roll of duct tape and a bed post in a wooded area not far from Brazil’s home. DNA evidence on the bed post was connected to both Brock and Brazil.
Several people testified that Brock lived in a home without running water or electricity. He never had much money, and a former love interest who lived with him said she never saw any guns at his home.
Deputies found nine guns when they searched it.
If he’s convicted as charged Brock, 57, will face life in prison. His trial is expected to conclude Friday.