Judge Hands Down 140-Year Sentence in Morgan County Murder and Drug Case

Spencer Newton Harwell(DPD)

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | North Alabama News

MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. — A Morgan County man convicted in the 2021 killing of Frankie Smith and trafficking methamphetamine has been sentenced to more than 100 years in prison, according to court records.

Spencer Newton Harwell was arrested following the June 2021 shooting of Smith at Smith’s business after what authorities described as an argument that turned violent. During the trial, Harwell claimed he acted in self-defense and alleged that Smith attacked him with a tire iron.

A jury rejected that argument, finding Harwell guilty of murder and methamphetamine trafficking. Investigators testified that drugs were discovered in Harwell’s room at the scene, leading to the additional trafficking charge.

On Tuesday, the court sentenced Harwell to 80 years in prison for murder and 60 years for drug trafficking. According to the sentencing order, the sentences may be served concurrently. Harwell was also granted credit for time already served and maintains his right to appeal.

The case marks one of Morgan County’s lengthiest sentences in recent years connected to a single murder and drug trafficking prosecution.

The Weekly Ledger News will continue to follow any appeals or additional court filings in this case.

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