Sebring, Florida — A Highlands County jury delivered a guilty verdict on Friday for Britney Lee Andrus in connection with the murder of 88-year-old James Little. The jury found Andrus guilty of second-degree murder, grand theft auto, and burglary with assault and battery, stemming from the incidents that occurred on October 22, 2020.
Emotions ran high as James Little’s son, Glenn Little, expressed relief at the verdict after waiting five years for justice. “I am extremely gratified by the verdict,” he said, adding that the family is “glad to hear about the results.”
Prosecutors contended that Andrus and her co-defendant, Tyler Ethan Best, illegally entered Little’s home over several days leading up to the crime, stealing cash and valuables. Best, who had previously pleaded guilty to the same charges, admitted to using the stolen items and cash to purchase methamphetamine. In exchange for his testimony against Andrus, Best is expected to receive sentencing considerations.
According to court testimonies, Best corroborated the prosecution’s account of events, stating that Andrus had discussed the idea of killing Little. However, he claimed he departed after the conversation escalated into an argument. Police discovered that Andrus and Best had allegedly accessed Little’s home by removing a window air conditioning unit before brutally attacking him.
Investigators found evidence that suggested Little had been beaten with a hammer or similar tool, leading to a violent scene in his bedroom. Emergency responders airlifted him to a hospital, where he died five days later.
Prosecutors asserted that blood patterns on Andrus’ clothing indicated her involvement in the violent act. In contrast, Andrus’ defense attorney argued that Best was responsible for the murder and posited that evidence linked to Andrus was circumstantial. He pointed out that Best had a motive to testify against Andrus, as he sought to avoid life sentences himself.
During the trial, Best recounted an encounter shortly after the murder when Andrus allegedly admitted to killing Little and offered him cash, which raised questions about her involvement. He claimed she arrived at a friend’s house wearing new clothes and had blood on her collar.
The defense painted Best as an unreliable witness, highlighting inconsistencies in his statements during the investigation. Attorneys argued that Andrus’ actions after the incident, such as calling 911, indicated she was not involved in the crime but was, in fact, shocked by what had happened.
Andrus is set to receive her sentencing on September 15, and she faces the possibility of a life sentence. The jury’s decision has sparked conversations about the nature of criminal partnerships and the motivations behind testimonies in high-stakes cases.
This account of events is derived from automated reporting with reliance on available court data and narrative details. For any corrections or retractions, please contact contact@publiclawlibrary.org.