The latest: Tuesday's jury selection triggered emotion from the defendant, Ross Harris, and one of the prospective jurors — for different reasons. Of the eight Cobb County citizens interviewed by attorneys, only three indicated they could be impartial, with the rest expressing a fixed opinion on Ross Harris' guilt.
The charges: Harris, accused of intentionally leaving his son Cooper inside a hot car to die, is charged with malice murder, two counts of felony murder, cruelty to children in the first and second degree, criminal attempt to commit a felony and dissemination of harmful materials to minors.
Rare emotion: Harris bowed his head, covering his face with his hands, as Juror 29, convinced of his guilt, recalled how Cooper was found with scratch marks that he gave himself while struggling to get out of his car seat.
Quote of the day: "I'm really angry I'm going to have to do this because of someone else's poor choices," said Juror 32, breaking down in tears as she told attorneys how her business would suffer if she is compelled to serve on the jury.
The tally: Sixteen jurors have been qualified, with a total of at least 32 needed — 12 jurors, two alternates and nine "peremptory" challenges afforded each side. Legal observers say it's likely Cobb Superior Court Judge Mary Staley will want additional alternates because of the high-profile nature of the case.
What's next: Jury selection continues Wednesday, with the next round of challenges expected during the afternoon session. It's quite possible opening statements won't be heard until May.
For continuous updates on the Ross Harris trial, follow @ReporterJCB and @ajccourts on Twitter.
About the Author
