Jury pool in Spector trial set
The first phase of jury screening in the murder trial of music producer Phil Spector concluded Tuesday, with a pool of nearly 200 set to return in mid-April for final selection.
Spector, 67, is accused of murdering actress Lana Clarkson, 40, at his Alhambra home in February 2003. Clarkson was slain by a bullet through her mouth. Spector has pleaded not guilty.
The initial jury screening, which began Monday, allowed the dismissal of those who would have trouble serving through what could be a four-month trial. Prospective jurors were excused by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Larry Paul Fidler for reasons such as ill health, childcare duties and pre-paid vacations.
On Tuesday, one man was excused because he is a lawyer in another celebrity case -- a civil suit against private investigator Anthony Pellicano, who also faces racketeering and wiretapping charges.
Spector listened intently and smiled warmly at some of the potential jurors. He arrived at the downtown criminal courts building with his wife, Rachelle Short.
Roger J. Rosen, one of Spector’s attorneys, said his client is very engaged in his defense, writing him notes in the courtroom and sharing observations with him during breaks. “Very little gets by him,” Rosen said.
The remaining jury candidates are to return April 16 for questioning by lawyers on both sides.
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