Dad convicted in "one of worst child abuse cases" authorities had ever seen wants new trial (Jackson County, Alabama)

Dad SHERMAN MCBRYAR claims he didn't understand the charges filed against him. Really?

http://www.waff.com/story/20567235/father-convicted-of-child-abuse-requests-new-trial

Father convicted of child abuse requests new trial

 Posted: Jan 11, 2013 5:06 PM CST Updated: Jan 11, 2013 5:07 PM CST

By Stephen McLamb JACKSON COUNTY, AL (WAFF) - Jackson County authorities called it one of the worst child abuse cases they had ever seen, and the man convicted of the crime is asking a judge for a new trial.

From the Kilby Correctional Facility, Sherman McBryar claims he has valid reasons for asking for a new trial. He's also asking the public to pay for it.

McBryar pleaded guilty in 2011 to child abuse charges and received consecutive sentences totaling 35 years.

The charges accused him of slamming his 1-year-old daughter's head against the wall and putting wire around her wrist to keep her from sucking her thumb.

He was also charged with strapping his 2-year-old in a car seat and leaving her with three goats in a bathroom that was 90 degrees.

McBryar said he received ineffective counsel and his sentence was illegally imposed.

In court filings, McBryar claims his plea was not made voluntarily, and he did not understand the nature of the charges or the consequences of his plea.

He also claims the sentence imposed exceeds the maximum by law.

As of now, no hearing date has been set.