Jury selection commenced on Tuesday in the trial of former Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who is facing allegations of perjury stemming from her claims regarding financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 43-year-old Mosby, who held the position of state’s attorney for two terms from 2015 to 2023, is accused of lying under oath to withdraw $90,000 early from her city retirement account, utilizing provisions under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby presided over the proceedings and adjourned court at 4:20 p.m., instructing potential jurors to return the following day. “It’s going to be a busy day tomorrow,” she noted, indicating the extensive work ahead.
The trial has been relocated to U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, a decision made by Judge Griggsby, who has also ordered a separate trial for Mosby concerning two counts of making false statements on a loan application linked to the acquisition of properties in Florida.
During the jury selection process, Judge Griggsby posed 59 questions to 64 prospective jurors, including inquiries about their opinions of Mosby and their familiarity with several notable figures, such as Shelonda Stokes, president of the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore.
Some jurors were called in individually for further questioning, and portions of the proceedings were sealed from public view.
One of Mosby’s attorneys, Federal Public Defender James Wyda, requested a break for his client to attend a state court matter. Judge Griggsby emphasized the necessity of Mosby’s presence for the proceedings to continue.
Mosby appeared virtually in a Baltimore Circuit Court hearing concerning her divorce from Nick Mosby, the president of the Baltimore City Council.
The trial is anticipated to last approximately three weeks, with opening statements expected from both parties on Thursday.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
0 Comments
Log in to join the conversation.