Murder Trial Juror Sues Defense Lawyer

A juror accused of misconduct during a murder trial has sued a defense lawyer, saying he defamed her and made false statements.

Karen Sicard of Hampton Falls, N.H., claims that lawyer Albert Johnson of Boston “purposely and maliciously made false and defamatory statements.” The lawsuit was served this week while Johnson attended a hearing on an appeal for Pamela Smart, who was convicted on charges of coaxing her teen-age lover to kill her husband.

Johnson said earlier that a juror offered to sell audiotapes she made of her thoughts during jury deliberations. He said the juror was guilty of misconduct and was motivated by greed.