Collegiate Times

Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge Ray Grubbs granted the defense's motion to move William Morva's capital murder trial to another jurisdiction Thursday.

Morva's attorney concern about holding it in Montgomery County because selected jury members could potentially feel biased coming into the trial, and therefore make decisions based not just on what was presented within the court, but also what they've seen and heard outside of it.

For three full days, the court went though jury selection where 70 citizens were questioned by attorney's. Of those questioned, 10 were excused because of issues with the death penalty, 13 because their opinions were too strong to be left outside the courtroom, and 22 because they had certain relationships with people associated with the events and that it could possibly impact impartiality.

Grubbs addressed each reason, first explaining that issues with the death penalty would be encountered anywhere. He then stated that media coverage wasn't a problem and that anyone who felt that what they had heard on the news would sway their decision was excused from jury duty.

However, he then went on to say that relationships of any kind with those involved in the case raise concern. He felt that the connection among the community would affect the credibility of the jury's decision, even after the ones with notable relationships had been excused.

"There is a presumption that the defendant will not receive a fair trial," Grubbs said. "The court found it necessary to seat a jury of complete impartiality.

Grubbs decided that Morva would be more likely to receive a fair trial if it took place somewhere other than Montgomery County and surrounding areas.

After the Judge announced the decision, family members in the courtroom expressed sadness, knowing that the trial would be delayed and that it would take place somewhere other than their hometown.

Attorneys for both sides met behind closed doors following court adjournment to decide where and when the trial would be held. It has tentatively been scheduled for 2008, but the location will not be announced for another two weeks.