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Trayvon Martin Trial Will Not Be Delayed, Will Start June 10th

zimmerman trial for martin killing – en

Aleteia

Aleteia - published on 05/28/13

The judge also ruled on a wide range of facts that will be barred during the trial

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George Zimmerman's trial for the killing of Trayvon Martin will begin June 10th as planned, Circuit Judge Debra Nelso ruled today. The decision rejected a request of the defense to delay the trial.

Zimmerman is charged with second-degree murder of 17-year-old Martin, whom he shot and killed on February 26, 2012 in Sanford, Florida. Zimmerman says he acted in self-defense. The case has had national attention since the middle of last year since some believe the killing was racially motivated.

According to USA Today, the judge also ruled that a wide range of evidence would be barred from the trial, including "Martin's school records, past fighting, marijuana use, ownership of gold teeth, or any photos or text messages found on the teen's phone." The judge also barred a toxicology report that showed Martin had marijuana in his system the night of his death.

USA Today reported that the judge also granted the following motions:
• State motions to prohibit witnesses from offering their opinions about Zimmerman's guilt, the proper punishment he should receive for his actions, and from telling the jury to disregard the law.
• A state motion to compel George Zimmerman's wife, Shellie Zimmerman, to testify at a deposition, but the judge said Shellie can take the 5th and prosecutors will have to submit their questions in writing to the court and Nelson will decide if Shellie has to answer those specific questions.
• A motion to keep George Zimmerman from testifying about his lack of prior felony convictions.
• A defense motion to keep the identities of potential and actual jury members anonymous. Potential jurors will be referred to by numbers. Judge said other issues will be dealt with once jury selection is underway.

The judge said she reserved the right to allow on a case-by-case basis evidence previously barred during the trial if she determines the evidence is relevant.

Fox News has photos of Zimmerman's injuries taken just hours after the altercation with Martin.

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