Opinions of potential jurors will determine whether or not Brian Holliman”s murder trial will be held in Lowndes County.
In a ruling issued this morning in Lowndes County Circuit Court, Judge Lee Howard decided to wait until the juror-vetting process to decide on the defense”s request for a change of venue.
“The court will hold its ruling in abeyance until voir dire is conducted, allowing the Court to determine whether the prospective jurors have knowledge of the issues involving the media coverage and rule violations which could unduly prejudice either side in the jury selection process,” reads the ruling.
Voir dire is the process of questioning potential jurors about prejudices.
Holliman”s attorney, Steve Farese, filed the request for trial relocation on Aug. 24.
The document goes on to say the venue will be changed if an impartial jury cannot be obtained. If an impartial jury can be found, “the trial will continue as scheduled.”
Jury selection begins on Nov. 30.
Howard”s ruling also instructs the circuit clerk”s office to add an additional 50 potential jurors to the jury panel.
Holliman, 27, is charged with the Oct. 25, 2008 shotgun death of his wife, Laura Holliman, at their Caledonia home on North Wolfe Road.
Laura Holliman”s death initially was reported as a suicide; the mother of two was 24.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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