CENTREVILLE (WKZO) - The Doug Stewart trial is off to a slow start after a problem with a juror already. One of them had to be dismissed so even before the trial began they were down to one alternative juror.
They will press on with just 13. There has already been one motion by the Defense for a Mistrial and a warning from the judge for both sides to turn down the volume and the heat, as passions have already run a little hot.
In opening arguments, the prosecutor laid out his basic case and what he thinks will prove it. Defense Attorney Jeffrey Schroder said the prosecution’s case is guesswork, and by law they need more than that to convict.
The parents of the alleged victim, Venus Stewart, are at the top of the witness list and the man that prosecutors contend was recruited to help Stewart establish an alibi in Virginia, Rickie Spencer, is scheduled testify later this week.
