Jury Selection Begins in Murder Trial of Aaron Hernandez

Twitter: @markcurtisABC6 

In the bitter winter cold and snow hundreds of people entered the Fall River Justice Center, as potential jurors in the murder trial of former patriot star Aaron Hernandez. While cameras were not allowed in the jury assembly room on this day, we can report that Hernandez greeted those who might decide his fate with a simple, “Good morning”. Attorneys on both sides, say they are ready for trial.
 
Tom Quinn, Acting Bristol County District Attorney said, “We are looking forward to a jury being selected, that is fair and impartial to both sides. The court has gone to great lengths to ensure that this takes place.”
 
Jurors filled out a lengthy questionnaire, aimed at gauging how much they already know about the case. They were also told not to watch any more media coverage, or discuss Hernandez with family, friends or reporters.
 
Mark Curtis, ABC6 Reporter said, “Over 1,000 people were summoned to this courthouse as potential jurors in the case. The judge hopes to whittle that number down to 80, by next Thursday.”
 
One thing the judge and lawyers will try to find out is to what extent potential jurors are fans of the New England Patriots – Hernandez’s former employer. They don’t want any juror’s judgment clouded by Patriot pride.
 
Larry Signore, an attorney and legal analyst said, “The prosecution, as well as the judge and even defense counsel is going to want the juror to make a decision based on the facts and evidence presented, and not any other sense of loyalty to a Patriot’s fan or sense of loyalty to a Patriot’s player.”
 
Jurors were told they must decide Hernandez’s guilt or innocence in the murder of Odin Lloyd, based solely on what is revealed inside the courtroom.
 
Selection of the final 12 jurors and alternates could take a couple of more weeks. Once the trial begins, we are told it could last two or three months.