23-05-2025
Conviction upheld for Collierville attorney who tried to kill his wife
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A former Collierville attorney who was convicted of trying to kill his wife multiple times will stay in prison after his latest attempt at an early release was denied.
The Shelby County District Attorney's Office says that a judge ruled against former attorney Fred Wortman last week.
Collierville attorney sentenced 30 years after entering best interest plea
In 2015, Wortman was convicted of trying to kill his wife on three separate occasions. Wortman was accused of poisoning her toothpaste, hiring a hitman who turned out to be an undercover TBI agent, and paying an inmate to murder her.
Later that year, Wortman entered a 'best interest' plea and was sentenced to 30 years in prison with 30% release eligibility.
According to the DA's Office, despite his plea deal, Wortman was granted an early parole hearing. Records from the Tennessee Department of Corrections show that at one point, his release eligibility date was January 2, 2018.
Apology to family from attorney who tried to kill his wife
The parole board ultimately denied Wortman's release.
The DA's Office says Wortman then filed a motion for post-conviction relief, with his defense claiming that he 'misunderstood the release terms.' His defense reportedly also claimed that the State violated the plea agreement by opposing parole.
The DA's Office says a judge denied the motion and has upheld Wortman's conviction.
TDOC records show that Wortman's sentence is expected to end on August 26, 2040. Records also show that another parole hearing is scheduled for September 2026.
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