The Trayvon Martin case began today with jury selection and opening statement from the Martin family
This morning, the murder trial of George Zimmerman began for the shooting death of unarmed 17 year old teenager Trayvon Martin in a gated community in Sanford, Florida in February 2012. This case is undoubtedly one of the most pivotal trials in getting an honest view of the American justice system, race, and gun control.
Zimmerman,who is Hispanic, was joined in the courtroom by his wife Shellie Zimmerman as Circuit Court Judge Debra Nelson called a recess so that she, the prosecuting attorney, and the defense attorney could meet with about 100 jurors, who all filled out questionnaires before being called before the court to be interrogated one by one. There is no deadline as to when the final six jurors will be selected.
At the trial opening, the Martin family issued a statement to the court, thankful for the opportunity to receive justice for the loss of their teenage son. Trayvon’s father Tracy says, “As we seek justice for our son Trayvon, we also seek a fair and impartial trial.” he goes on to say, “We ask that the community continue to stay peaceful as we place our faith in the justice system.”
Also, Judge Nelson heard another pre-trial motion of efforts by the defense to block testimony by audio experts, which suggests that Martin is heard screaming for help in the background of a 911 call moments before he was shot dead. Zimmerman’s attorney Mark O’Mara believes that this is the most important piece of evidence in the case.
It has been established that George Zimmerman, then nothing more than a 28 year old self proclaimed neighborhood watch captain, disobeyed police orders not to pursue Martin before their confrontation in question. Additionally, the community was outraged because Zimmerman was not arrested initially following the shooting.
TheSource.com will be following this story closely and keep you up to date on its developments.
-Sha Be Allah(@KingPenStatus)
