Judge orders jurors' names released in Teeple case

Chatham County man found guilty in 2019 death of elderly man

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:49pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, torn piece of paper with handwritten notes, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the investigative nature of the Teeple case.The release of juror names in the Teeple case could shed light on the deliberations and decision-making process in this high-profile criminal trial.Savannah Today

A judge has ordered the release of jurors' names in the case of Charles Teeple IV, who was found guilty by a Chatham County jury of battery, involuntary manslaughter, and exploitation and intimidation of an elderly person in the 2019 death of 66-year-old Bruce Helmly.

Why it matters

The release of juror names is an unusual move that could allow Teeple's legal team to potentially investigate or communicate with the jurors after the trial, raising concerns about the integrity of the judicial process.

The details

Teeple was charged after he allegedly punched Helmly on New Year's Eve 2019 at Basil's Bar in Wilmington Island, leading to Helmly's death days later. The motion to release the juror names was filed by the state following a request from Teeple's representation for a continuance and hearing on a 'limited post-trial matter', which included two affidavits purportedly from two jurors.

  • Teeple was found guilty by a Chatham County jury in December 2025.
  • Teeple's sentencing hearing, originally scheduled for March 13, 2026, was canceled.
  • Teeple's next court appearance is set for April 7, 2026.

The players

Charles Teeple IV

A Chatham County man who was found guilty by a jury of battery, involuntary manslaughter, and exploitation and intimidation of an elderly person in the 2019 death of Bruce Helmly.

Bruce Helmly

A 66-year-old man who died in 2019 after being punched by Teeple at Basil's Bar in Wilmington Island.

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What’s next

Teeple's sentencing hearing, which was originally scheduled for March 13, 2026, has been canceled. His next court appearance is set for April 7, 2026, when the judge is expected to determine if the jurors' names will be officially released.

The takeaway

The release of juror names in a high-profile criminal case is highly unusual and raises concerns about the potential for improper communication or influence on the jury after the trial has concluded. This decision could have significant implications for the integrity of the judicial process and the finality of the verdict.