Feb. 17, 2020 9:55a Updated: 10:24am (background information about the case), 10:52am (Trial Adjournment), 11:50 (New Story Notice)
(WGTD)---Martice Fuller's trial got off to a rocky start after it was revealed in court that the alleged killer was heard on a jail recording of phone conversations trying to persuade relatives to contact jurors. Prosecutor Michael Graveley said an investigation is underway but at this point it appears unlikely that any juror was contacted. Both Graveley and the defense expressed concern that a fair trial could occur if the tapes would be played for jurors. Graveley argued that the recordings would be construed as evidence of guilt. Fuller is accused of killing his ex-girlfriend 15-year-old Kaylie Juga and wounding her mother, 39-year-old Stephanie Juga, in May of 2019. Judge Wagner declared a recess so she could mull over the situation. The courtroom is packed with an overflow crowd in the hallway. Security is tight with a dozen sheriffs deputies and police officers on hand.
Kaylie Juga decided to end her relationship with Fuller in February of 2019. In March, Fuller reached out to friends seeking help to secure a gun. Fuller was seen by family members walking around the Juga home armed. Fuller also made stops at Kaylie's job at a local dry cleaners, prompting her to quit. Video camera footage showed Fuller riding his bike near the Juga home just four days before the shooting in May.
UPDATE: Due to these revalations and concerns over fairness, Judge Mary Wagner has adjourned the trial until May. A new jury will be selected. WGTD will provide more updates.
Update: An updated story has been posted here. https://www.wgtd.org/news/perturbed-judge-delays-martice-fuller-trial
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