Cameras to Be Restricted in Bryant Trial

Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom only during opening and closing arguments of the Kobe Bryant sexual assault trial, the judge ruled Tuesday.

Concerned about potential witness intimidation, Judge Terry Ruckriegle said no cameras will be allowed in the evidence phase of the trial, which includes all testimony. Video and audio coverage will be allowed only during closing arguments and still cameras will be allowed during opening and closing arguments.

“Substantial portions of the testimony may no doubt be embarrassing and humiliating for some of the participants and will likely exact some measure of intense psychological stress,” Ruckriegle said.

The judge said physical threats made against the alleged victim, prosecutors and others involved in the case caused him concern. Jury selection begins Friday and the trial is expected to begin about Sept. 7.

News organizations had asked that the entire trial be televised and photographed. The request was opposed by the defense, prosecution and attorneys for the alleged victim.

Bryant, 26, has pleaded not guilty to felony sexual assault stemming from an incident June 30, 2003, at a mountain resort where he was a guest and his accuser worked.