Randy's Trial day 1

This is an email my wife sent out during the trial.

Thank you, All, for your thoughts, prayers, notes and encouragement.

On day one of the trial, the attorneys finished arguing some pre-trial motions, and in the afternoon, a jury was selected.

First let me say, please don't ever despise jury duty. Most people see it as an inconvenience, but in reality, it is a PRIVILEGE. It may not be a pleasant experience hearing about wrongs and evils committed by and on others, but regardless of guilt or innocence, lives hang in the balance, and we have the privilege as citizens of the United States to be part that system. If we don't protect, value, and embrace our duty, then it could be striped away...and what if it is you being accused next? Take it seriously.

With the pre-trial motion arguments, we experienced a few unpleasant surprises. Not only did the judge not grant defense motions for a second demurrer (indicating problem with the indictment...no arrest warrant attached or indicated), disallowed any of Randy's testimony about payments Randy made after the transaction in August 29, 2011 (basically stating the crime of theft was committed Aug 29, 2011...without proving that there was theft in the first place), but he overturned a previous ruling that limited expert witness testimony. 

A jury was selected and sworn in, and today we will begin opening statements and the prosecution will commence with its case. (After our attorney argues some case law regarding the admissibility of evidence related to the actions after Aug 29, 2011).

Off to Day  2.

Diane