James Smith is a witness in the case towards former Fort Worth officer Aaron Dean. Smith was seen holding an indication saying “Justice for Atatiana Jefferson.”
FORT WORTH, Texas — A witness in the Aaron Dean homicide trial was requested to look earlier than the decide presiding over the case on Tuesday after he was seen protesting outside of the courthouse.
James Smith is the person who referred to as Fort Worth police to verify on Atatiana Jefferson on Oct. 12, 2019 after he noticed an open door at her house. He can also be a witness in the case towards former officer Dean, who fatally shot Jefferson.
Dean is accused of homicide for the incident that occurred greater than two years in the past.
As jury choice continues this week for the much-anticipated trial, Smith was requested to look earlier than Judge George Gallagher to be sworn in after the decide realized the witness was outside the Tarrant County Courthouse on Monday holding an indication that learn, “Justice for Atatiana Jefferson.”
Gallagher issued a gag order for all witnesses and attorneys main up the trial, which implies they don’t seem to be allowed to talk publicly in regards to the case.
Smith was informed he can now not protest or he can be held in contempt of courtroom.
Meanwhile, attorneys for each side spent Tuesday reviewing questionnaires that the potential jurors stuffed out on Monday.
Both sides wish to know extra particulars in regards to the potential jurors and the way they really feel about legislation enforcement, race and the usage of lethal power.
There are 200 potential jurors, with 109 of them saying they’ve heard in regards to the case. They have been referred to as again to the courthouse for Wednesday in order that attorneys can individually query them.
They hope to have 12 jurors and two alternates picked by Friday.
Opening statements and testimony is scheduled to start on Monday, Dec. 5.
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