George Zimmerman Real Time Trial Thread *No Discussion* 7/11/2013

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George Zimmerman Real Time Trial Thread *No Discussion* Friday July 12 th 2013
 
Here you go
 
Bill S....court hearing lasted all of 6 min. about jury instructions.

Terry Spencer ‏@terryspen 10m
Florida cities, community leaders work to head off unrest if Zimmerman acquitted - http://abcn.ws/13Q2wgs .@mikeschneiderap .@miamicurt
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 3m
State attys Mantei and Guy chatting with defense atty West in courtroom over charging document now.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1m
Court is in recess for 30 min to give remaining attorneys time to conference on some things. #zimmerman

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1m
Prosecutor De la Rionda is also not here. Presumably he and O'Mara are working on their closing arguments.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 3m
Defense attorney Don West apologized to judge/informed judge he would handle charging conf solo. Mark O'Mara is elsewhere 4 now

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 4m
Defense attorneys were about a minute or so late for second straight day.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 6m
Court is back in session.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 8m
Note: Defense attorney O'Mara will be arguing that lesser includ charges of manslaughter/aggravated assault should be thrown out

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 11m
In the courtroom. People tricking in. Attys need to finish jury instruction debate. If sked holds, state will begin closing @1.
 
From O'Mara's press conference last night and trial recap:

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 10h
VIDEO: Day 21 recap in the #GeorgeZimmerman trial: http://goo.gl/G3Mdm . #ZIMMERMANon9. #WFTV.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 12h
TONIGHT: #GeorgeZimmerman won't take the stand. Hear a testy exchange about it between his attorney & Judge Nelson. #ZIMMERMANon9.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 14h
"We'll be cautious" if there's an acquittal, Mark O'Mara says about safety. #ZIMMERMANon9.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 15h
Defense will not bring in marijuana evidence, @Markomaralaw says. #ZIMMERMANon9.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 15h
Mark O'Mara doesn't want a sympathy verdict, he says. #ZIMMERMANon9

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 15h
Mark O'Mara about #GeorgeZimmerman: "He's worried." #ZIMMERMANon9.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 15h
"I think he wanted to tell his story." - Mark O'Mara about #GeorgeZimmerman.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 15h
Mark O'Mara at press conference now. #ZIMMERMANon9. pic.twitter.com/yICQWaLaZc
 
WFTV Eyewitness News ‏@WFTV 2h
Closing arguments to begin in #Zimmerman trial http://at.wftv.com/154atLI #zimmermanon9 pic.twitter.com/AsxetGQ346
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV

Deneige Broom ‏@DBroomWFTV 8m
.@BillSheafferPA says jurors won't know the possible sentences attached to charges before they deliberate #Zimmermanon9 #TrayvonMartin
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV

Deneige Broom ‏@DBroomWFTV 12m
Recess for 30 minutes while both sides prepare arguments about jury instructions #Zimmermanon9 #TrayvonMartin
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 15m
Defense's @markomaralaw not in courtroom this morning. Prepping closing argument? #Zimmermanon9
 
Apparently court came back before the 30 min. was over, OM there, and the judge and West had a little back and forth, according to Bill S. He also reminded us this is not in front of the jury. Bill said no matter the judge's feelings toward West, she is steady, knows the law and is fair.

Correction: that exchange may have been replayed from yesterday. (it's hard to keep track of West's objections!)

Correction again: Bill S. replayed the West and judge exchange and it was this morning, with West demanding the instructions include the statement that following someone is not against the law. Judge says she will not include it and this is when she told him, you continually argue with my decisions and she has already 3 times given him copies of correct court procedure and he is not to argue with her decisions.
On the video, he continues to speak about the issue and she again says, your limini motion is denied.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 13h
TONIGHT: #GeorgeZimmerman won't take the stand. Hear a testy exchange about it between his attorney & Judge Nelson. #ZIMMERMANon9.

[I remember this now...Tues. night, judge wanted to hear this from GZ and asked him to stand and respond..West said he would speak for GZ, judge said no, and told him to sit down.]

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
@danachaabanwftv @cyberbouncer asks: did judge break rule yesterday by overruling West's objection w/out hearing his basis for objection?

Bill S. and reporter discussing court rules for media during closings and verdict. Of note, the jury will receive letters on their chairs telling them it is their decision whether they want to talk to media after the verdict or not.

WFTV Eyewitness News ✔ @WFTV
Join @BillSheafferPA and @GWarmothWFTV during court breaks for #Zimmermantrial commentary during #Zimmermanon9.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
30-minute recess has turned into 40 minutes... #Zimmermanon9

Bill S. points out that objections are allowed during closings if the facts are misstated or other violations...it is rare...
 
Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
State attorney Mantei has issue with defense replacing "defendant" with #GeorgeZimmerman. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 3m
Court is back in session. #Zimmeranon9

One big change is that only the first letter of names will be in cap, not the whole name...

Defense wants to take off all lesser offenses and have only 2nd degree murder or not guilty...Mantei going over differences in definition of charges state wants...West says they charged 2nd degree and 'have not proved it' so that should be the only choice...
Judge questions GZ personally if he understands this is what his defense team wants and does he agree, yes...she will rule on this later...


West: State has change manslaughter to 'manslaughter by act' which applies to 'criminal negligence'..he is researching and will let them know what he has later...

Mantei..next request of lesser is 3rd degree felony murder...state proposal has proved 3 elements of this charge...he is giving cases that apply, including child abuse, waving the gun around and the gun going off, law changed...can now include unintentional act...

They are also discussing definitions of charges included in the instructions.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
Defense doesn't want lesser charges--2nd deg murder or nothing. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
State wants to included charges of manslaughter and 3rd degree murder instead of aggravated assault. #Zimmermanon9
 
Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 6m
The state also wants felony murder based in part on child abuse. Martin had just turned 17 before #Zimmermanon9 shot and killed him.

Mantei giving several cases to base this on....

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 4m
The judge will include third degree murder as an option for the jury but not aggravated assault with a firearm. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 6m
The only charge on the table and they have to be able to prove it or #Zimmermanon9 should go free. 2/2

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 7m
The defense argued unsuccessfully that the state charged #Zimmermanon9 with second degree murder so that should be 1/2

FL Courts 18 ‏@PIOFLCourts18 7m
Response to FAQ:
****Jury Instructions will be on http://ww.flcourts18.org as soon as they are completed.
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV
****added by poster

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 8m
Court will give jury instructions on the lesser charge of manslaughter. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 8m
The judge has ruled that manslaughter will be an option for the jury in addition to second degree murder. #Zimmerman

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 13m
Defense doesn't want lesser charges--2nd deg murder or nothing. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 13m
State wants to included charges of manslaughter and 3rd degree murder instead of aggravated assault. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 16m
Sorry, WON'T be in all caps. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 17m
Both #Zimmerman's and #TrayvonMartin's name will be in all caps for uniformity. #Zimmermanon9
 
West reponds to Mantei's wanting charge of 3rd degree murder based on child abuse: says this was dumped on them at 7:30am this morning and he has obviously been working on it for at least a year. State has been lying in wait with this since April.

West: just when I thought this case could not get anymore bazaar, it goes further...can the court take this seriously? If the court was not provided this either...judge says don't go there, there has been a lot of material I have requested and not received.

West: Mantei has obviously been working on this for months and is not fair to defense or GZ or court for this to happen right now...this 'remarkable' suggested by state...he will need hours of recess to research...that somehow GZ was engaged in child abuse in trying to defend himself..

West to judge: this is a trick! don't you realize this is a trick?

Judge says these instructions are part of the definition from the supreme court on 3rd degree murder with the unlying definition of child abuse, indicating he should have known...I'm not going to allow you hours...he interrupts and she says, I'm not finished speaking, he apologizes...

West: I object.

Judge: we will deal with that later...
 
WFTV Eyewitness News ‏@WFTV 10m
#DonWest reacts to state seeking 3rd degree murder w/child abuse: "Just when I thought this case couldn't get more bizarre." #Zimmermanon9
Retweeted by Ryan Hughes - WFTV

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 10s
NOW: "I don't want to hear the word 'trick' anymore in regards to these arguments, please." - Judge Debra Nelson #ZIMMERMANon9.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 3m
The last minute. He said it's typical if the way the state has operated. Prosecutor Rich Mantei did not deny it. 2/2 #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 4m
The defense said "doesn't the court realize this was a trick?" (by the state to spring the child abuse murder issue at 1/2 #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 7m
Pummeling #Zimmermanon9. 2/2

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 7m
The defense says it needs more time to prepare.. And says it's absurd that #Zimmermanon9 was abusing a child when Martin was 1/2

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 9m
There is a lot of talking to do.. He said it's outrageous and disingenuous. 2/2 #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 10m
The defense says the case has gotten even more bizarre.. and said if the judge is giving it serious consideration 1/2 #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 11m
@taggat4 The jury is not present. They come in at 1pm. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 13m
@denimh20 It humanizes him to the jury. @SunnyHostin @MDumercy #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 13m
The state seemed to concede yesterday that even if Martin was on top, once #Zimmermanon9 grabbed for his gun he became the aggressor.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 14m
In death even if unintentional and even if #Zimmermanon9 didn't realize Martin was under 18 should be a related lesser charge.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 15m
The state is arguing for third degree felony murder.. arguing irrational or hostile behavior toward a child resulting 1/2 #Zimmermanon9
 
Mantei going over the instructions for 3rd degree murder that concern child abuse, he says the choice is there, if not to be used, why is it there?

Judge to West, you included this on the instructions, he agrees but said he did for discussion, it required the state prove that something GZ did provoked the confrontation and he says they have not proven this. Goes over his 'facts' of TM attacking GZ first. Is saying that the witness (Jentel, TMs friend) that says GZ attacked TM is wrong and is telling judge that what she heard does not prove GZ attacked TM first. TM had time to go home but he did not and hung around to confront GZ. He says that is established clearly. Says GZ was not following....on and on...it is outrageous to suggest to this jury that GZ provoked the confrontation...he did not use force or threaten use of force as required..Mantei knows this and state has not offered a compelling argument to give this to the jury...

Mantei says the only facts required are force or threat of force, but West is determining the witness is not credible and this is the job of the jury to determine if the witness is believeable...GZ admits he followed, there is evidence and is up to the jury not to West to decide....there is evidence of provocation by GZ and should go to jury...

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 2m
RT @garywgreen: Don West motions towards Angela Corey in response to last minute child abuse charges: pic.twitter.com/mdhruwX7me.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 3m
The defense accused the state of pulling tricks again and the judge asked Don Wesr not to use the word "trick" any more. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 31s
The instructions are the jury's guidebook in reaching a verdict. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
The lawyers are arguing over the language in jury instructions which is tedious but important. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
The state just said the facts show an equal possibility that either #Zimmermanon9 or Martin was the aggressor.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 44s
Don West: "#TrayvonMartin had 2 or 3 minutes to get home...and chose not to." #ZIMMERMANon9.
 
Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
The defense says there is no evidence #Zimmermanon9 provoked the deadly confrontation.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
The defense says Martin's friend said Martin first spoke to #Zimmermanon9 and walking behind someone is not provoking.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 3m
The defense says Martin had almost 4 minutes to go 348 feet to get away from #Zimmermanon9 but chose not to.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 9m
The state just said the facts show an equal possibility that either #Zimmermanon9 or Martin was the aggressor.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
In a similar case in Pinellas County last year, the state did not charge finding following is not illegal or improper. #Zimmermanon9

West now going back and forth with judge that they are asking for instructions to jury that meet the defense's theory of their case; if the instruction includes 3rd degree it will make the jury think GZ did something wrong and followed TM; if state is allowed to include this it is an improper statement of the law and if the jury finds him guilty of this, it will be a miscarriage of the law...

Mantei, it does not have to be against the law to include the fact the GZ was possibly following TM, it is up to the jury to determine the facts based on evidence...

West, repeats again, judge says you continually argue with me when I make a ruling and this is against court procedure, you are free to communicate that to the jury in closing arguments, if my decision is wrong then it can be appealed later...West asks again if the state is allowed to tell jury it is against the law to follow someone, she should change this...judge, no

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
The defense wants the judge to tell the jury following is not illegal. The judge says she won't. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 4m
@Angie_Lytical #TrayvonMartin's parents are not in court for this. They'll likely be here for closing arguments. #Zimmermanon9
 
I never knew going over instructions could be so dramatic!

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
The felony third degree murder/child abuse issue is on hold for now as defense researches the state's last minute add. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 1m
STORY: Judge: Jury can consider manslaughter in #Zimmermantrial: http://at.wftv.com/154atLI #Zimmermanon9 via @WFTV

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
The judge said the defense can tell the jury following is not illegal during closing. #Zimmermanon9

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 2m
Judge Debra Nelson to Don West: "You continually disagree with this court everytime I make a ruling." #ZIMMERMANon9.
 
West now argues for instruction to jury to include that case is based on circumstantial evidence.

Mantei if that argument was correct, every case would have this instructions, and second this case is not only circumstantial, there is direct evidence that GZ shot TM, there is other physical evidence from the state. The Supreme court has said prefaces every case with saying both have to be included.

Judge: I'm not including that instruction.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
Bomb threat at CIVIL courthouse in #Sanford across from City Hall. Not #Zimmermanon9 courthouse. Evacuations happening. @KRayWFTV otw.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 6m
Prosecutor Bernie de la Rionda is not in court and neither is the Martin family. #Zimmermanon9

State wanted to include fact that some expert witnesses were paid and amounts. West disagrees, and judge agrees with him, this is not something I feel the jury should consider in evaluating their testimony. Mantei understands.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
The defense wants a special instruction about circumstantial evidence but the judge said no. #Zimmermanon9

West asks are these instructions going to be personalized? judge says yes (don't know what this means)

Judge: we have to talk about the felony murder 3rd degree...concerning the child abuse...one of the elements is intentional act required...that is not alleged in the state's action...Mantei says the shooting..judge, that's the issue I will be looking at but will give Mr. West some time to research...

Judge...the only ones I have to deal with are the 3rd degree and the instruction for 2nd degree, state's request for 'great bodily harm' definition be included....West says he does not agree, but define the 'fear bodily harm', he would take out aggravated battery...the supreme court decided it didn't need to be defined beyond the public understanding...it's not that GZ sustained great bodily harm, but that he feared it...WEst says I used the definition from the SC...state is using definition, she cites several cases....West these cases are not correct to cite, they do not apply to self defense..the state's definition is deeply wrong and should not be used, just plain wrong for the jury to have...no injuries are required for self defense...

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 3m
Judge Debra Nelson: "Some [witnesses] sounded like they were giving infomercials." #ZIMMERMANon9.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 6m
RT @WFTV: Bomb, gun threat at #Sanford civil courthouse: http://at.wftv.com/11FKLAg ; pic.twitter.com/KCyy6n3lgt.

Mantei...says jury should know about the reasonableness of GZ's fear...wants a special instruction on this...judge denies...she finds this request akin to defense's prior request on a definition...

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 5m
The defense says #Zimmermanon9 's injuries are irrelevant. Martin would not have had to lay a hand on him to argue seld defense

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 6m
The state wants the judge to define "great bodily harm". The defense says the Supreme Court doesn't do it in self defense. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 9m
Sanford PD chief told @KRayWFTV that bomb threat could be an effort to draw cops away from #Zimmermanon9, among other possibilities.
 
Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 3m
The judge is not going to give the jury a special definition of "great bodily harm" . #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 4m
The defense says that #Zimmermanon9 didn't die and didn't have his skull cracked isn't relevant.

Ryan Hughes - WFTV ‏@RHughesWFTV 8m
Via @DanaChaabanWFTV: Judge Nelson rules "great bodily harm" definition will NOT be read to jury. State can argue it in closing.

On to jury verdict form, West agrees with choices given but objects to formatting...he thinks not guilty should be first...judge said that is not done, understands his arguments and is not doing that...judge, it will be on the same page of the other choices...charges should have strongest charge first, judge agrees charges will be first then the special considerations of use of firearm...

They will recess now and back at 1:00 and be prepared to argue the 3rd degree instructions before DLR starts his closing..
 
Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 36m
Judge says court will be in recess until 1 to finish argument on third degree murder inclusion b4 closing arguments begin.

Rodney Hawkins ‏@RodneyCBSNews 39m
West says the verdict form is confusing & needs 2 be reformatted. Judge Nelson agrees & make changes 2 verdict form
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 41m
Attorneys are now quibbling over verdict form.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 44m
Judge says she won't give a special instruction on "great bodily harm" being necessary for justifiable use of deadly force

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 47m
West says state is asking judge to deviate from law by asking for instruction that "great bodily harm" isn't just mere bruises.

Jeff Weiner ‏@JeffWeinerOS 49m
West: "Just because he ( #GeorgeZimmerman) didn't die, just because his skull wasn't fractured," doesn't mean no fear. #ZimmermanTrial
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 59m
Judge says she will give defense more time to research third degree murder issue.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Judge is resuming arguments on inclusion of 3rd degree felony murder

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Updated: Jury in #Zimmerman case may consider other charges (from @AP) #trayvonmartin http://m.apnews.com/site/?targetUrl=urn:publicid:ap.org:0d4d6b95c0954619b9de988a06178a50 …

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Judge lectures West on decorum rules and barks: "If I have made a mistake, you will appeal."

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Spoke too soon. Don West voice raised again. He's clearly agitated again.

David Ovalle ‏@DavidOvalle305 1h
Don West wants jury instruction saying "following" #TrayvonMartin is not against law. Judge notes they can argue that during closing
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
West says jury should be told "it's not illegal to follow somebody."

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Note: West had calmed his body language a little since his early blowup.

Jeff Weiner ‏@JeffWeinerOS 1h
Judge Nelson rules for defense: Jury will not be read instruction on #GeorgeZimmerman "provoking" #TrayvonMartin. #ZimmermanTrial
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Mantei: "There is evidence the defendant was the provoker...Respectfully that is up to the jury, not Mr. West."

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
West says "it's outrageous" to suggest #GeorgeZimmerman provoked #TrayvonMartin

Jeff Weiner ‏@JeffWeinerOS 1h
Mantei: #GeorgeZImmerman's admission of following #TrayvonMartin, testimony on pursuit is evidence of "provocation." #ZimmermanTrial
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Tony Pipitone ‏@TonyPipitone 1h
We've gone from arguing over capitalization to defense accusing state of trickery in mere minutes. Legal whiplash.
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
West argues that only want language that covers defense theory that #zimmerman felt threat of great bodily harm at time of shooting

David Ovalle ‏@DavidOvalle305 1h
Don West bristling at state language proposal in jury instruction. "Another trick." "Don’t use the word trick anymore," judge warns him.
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Mantei argues that justifiable use if force not applicable because #TrayvonMartin wasn't committing felony against #zimmerman at time

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
Judge says they'll come back to 3rd degree felony argument later. Moving on to language over justifiable use of force.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
West continues: "This is a trick. Doesn't the court realize this? This is a trick by the state."

David Ovalle ‏@DavidOvalle305 1h
West just slammed down cup on table. Very theatrical. He's not a happy camper.
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1h
West is noticeably irate while pleading case to judge. Arms flailing at times. Voice inflections go up. #zimmerman

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
West also accuses state of bringing up this request at the last minute. Calls it "outrageous".

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
West on state trying to add 3rd degree murder: "Just when I thought this case couldn't be any more bizarre."

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
Jury in #Zimmerman case may consider other charges (from @AP) #TrayvonMartin http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_268748/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=yGvwla8e …

Yamiche Alcindor ‏@Yamiche 2h
Mantei is citing case law to support his argument that Zimmerman committed child abuse on Trayvon.
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
Note: #TrayvonMartin parents are not in the courtroom for these arguments over charges. #ZimmermanTrial

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
Attorneys are now arguing over which lesser included charges should be put in front of the jury.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2h
Court is back in session btw. Attorneys still haggling over charging docs/jury instructions page by page.
 
Court back in session...

Fin Gomez ‏@finnygo 5m
Zimmerman's parents now in courtroom. #zimmerman #trayvon
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Mantei...the intent to harm as a requirement of the child abuse 3rd degree is the shooting, does not require more...

West starts telling how he was only given this, this morning...judge stops him say she doesn't need his argument since she is not going to include the
3rd degree charge...she has doubts the evidence supports a child abuse charge..

Now looking at justifiable use of force, on the 2nd degree murder, judge will leave that, but it is not a requirement of manslaughter..will be taken out there...

Note from poster: Angela Corey is sitting inside the bar at a table just behind Mantei and Guy, she nodded her head on things she agreed on...

Judge says she will adjourn until about 1:35 to give the state time to get the jury verdict form revised and she can go over it when back in court, and the changes can also be made to the instructions....

Bill S....he doubts judge consulted with other judges about the 3rd degree charge, since she is very bright and experienced, so that other judges come to her for advice...

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 4m
Court is in recess until 1:35p.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 5m
Judge about to recess to allow for jury instructions revisions.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 5m
#TrayvonMartin parents Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin just entered the courtroom.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 14m
Mark O'Mara is now back at defense team table. #ZimmermanTrial
 
Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 5m
Updated: Jury in #Zimmerman case may consider other charges (from @AP) #TrayvonMartin http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_268748/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=yGvwla8e …

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 5m
MT @WFTV: JUST IN: #GeorgeZimmerman's final charges before jury: 2nd degree murder and the lesser charge of manslaughter. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 6m
In recess til about 130

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 7m
The Martin family has just come in with their lawyers. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 12m
Prosecutor Bernie de la Rionda and the Martins are still not in court. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 13m
The judge says #Zimmermanon9 was not charged with child abuse/felony murder so it's not a possible charge in the case.

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 14m
The defense didn't have to argue against it. The judge says it is not an option for the jury. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 16m
The state is still trying to convince the judge to allow the possibility of third degree felony murder/child abuse. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 19m
How was YOUR lunch? MT @DBroomWFTV: .@mattgutmanABC interviewing @KBelichWFTV on how #Zimmermanon9 impacted Sanford pic.twitter.com/bbbSWsDCoR

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 19m
The state kept them out as witnesses but never called them as the defense predicted. #Zimmermanon9

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 19m
The state is about to make the first part of it's closing argument. #Zimmermanon9 's parents, wife and other relatives are here.

Karla Ray ‏@KRayWFTV 52m
Training paid off at #Seminole Civic Courthouse- SCSO was ready and had the situation under control in less than an hour. #Zimmermanon9
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV
 
Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 29s
De la Rionda is expected to give 1st two hours of closing 2day and save an hour rebuttal for after defense closing Fri morning.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 1m
Recess not up yet, but prosecutor Bernie de la Rionda has just made his first court appearance of the day.

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 4m
For you fashionistas DLR sporting black suit and striped red tie FWIW.

Angela Corey has now moved to behind the bar...

WFTV Eyewitness News ‏@WFTV 1m
If #GeorgeZimmerman is convicted of 2nd degree murder, he faces life in prison. If it's manslaughter, up to 30 years. #Zimmermanon9
Retweeted by Kathi Belich, WFTV

Sidebar...what about? nobody knows...Bill S....I have no earthly idea....

Jury coming in now....

Now GZ and his attorneys having a discussion...

Jeff Weiner ‏@JeffWeinerOS 2m
Judge Nelson notes state hasn't technically rested in front of jury. That's next, then instructions for closing. #ZimmermanTrial
Retweeted by Kyle Hightower

Kyle Hightower ‏@khightower 2m
Martin family attorneys Benjamin Crump and Daryl Parks sitting with #TrayvonMartin parents. #ZimmermanTrial

Kathi Belich, WFTV ‏@KBelichWFTV 2m
The jury last heard a state rebuttal witness being questioned. The state was not allowed to proceed. The state has to rest. #Zimmermanon9

Judge asks DLR is the state rests, he says yes, your honor....she instructs the jury that what the lawyers say is not to be consider as evidence...
 
DLR....A teenager is dead through no fault of his own. He is dead because another man made assumptions and those assumptions were wrong. This is the last picture that will ever be taken of Trayvon Benjamin Martin, who had just turned 17 years old.

Did this man attempt to help Trayvon, did he do that? like the LE did mouth to mouth in attempts to save TMs life. Recall what he told Mr. Lauer when asking him to call his wife...just tell her I killed him. Just matter of fact.

Dec. 26...but the events leading up to this occurred months before...why do I say this, when GZ was first interviewed by Singleton, plays audio, what ended up to this...GZ says the area had a lot of crime, my wife was afraid, he decided to start at NW..

Those actions weren't anything of ill will or hateful, other neighborhoods start NW all the time, but in this instance it lead to the death of a 17 year old boy, he assumed things about TM and that lead to his death.

TM was there legally, he had not committed a crime, what was his crime? He had $40 and 15 cents in his pocket, he was wearing a hoodie and speaking to a girl in Miami and minding his own business, but this defendant decided he was up to no good. TM planned to watch the ball game and heading back at home, he was just doing a normal every day thing, went to the store, not doing anything illegal. But in this man's eyes, he was suspicious, a criminal, he didn't bother to find out, he called 911, he assumed things that weren't true and went over the line. Instead of waiting for the police because he wanted to make sure TM did not get out of the neighborhood, and this defendant was sick and tired of it, because he was going to be the police.

When you think about it who was more scared, the guy in a truck or the kid thinking he was being followed by a sex pervert? TM can't come into court and tell you what he was thinking because of the actions of this man.

It was perfectly good to get involved but instead of waiting for police, he got out and went further and it's important to realize this is what led to TMs death. GZ had the right to bear arms, had a concealed permit, was not violating the law. TM was 5/11 and 158 pounds. We'll talk about the concrete as a weapon. Again, what started it? This is the last photo of TM, because GZ thought he was one of those ***holes and punks who always get away, in his mind he assumed certain things, that he was one of those guys and he wasn't going to get away.

He was sick and tired of it but takes no responsibility...what did he say to the parents, I'm so sorry, I made a mistake, that's what we're asking for, to hold the defendant responsible for his actions. He could have asked TM what he was there for, he didn't give TM a chance, said TM is circling his car? Why did he get out of his car if he thinks TM was a threat to him, bec. he has a gun, he's going to handle it. Did he get out to kill TM, no, this is not predicated murder, he's charged with 2nd degree. This is what happens when you assume things incorrectly. I thought when you are walking in the rain, it was not against the law.

The defendant's, when claiming self defense. He kept denying that he followed TM, that shows ill will and hatred. That's why he kept saying he didn't know the name of the street, how big is the neighborhood, been there 4 years and patrolled these sts. before. Unfortunately, there is only 2 people and he was going to make sure that other person couldn't tell what happened, he silenced TM, but TM still talks even in death, the DNA and position of his body, tells us this man is lying.

Remember there was no blood on TMs hand he asked dr. de maio about? GZ had to exaggerate what happened, then he got hit, then TM got him down, then put his hand over his mouth, than he went for the gun...if you take one word out of here, it's the assumptions made about the victim: that he was suspicious, a criminal, a punk, he wasn't going to give TM the benefit of the doubt. Did he roll down his window and tell TM to wait while he called the LE and tell them what you are doing? He used his gun instead of common sense. GZ wanted to be LE, took CJ classes, this is all good, but you can't take the law in your own hands.
 
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