Wednesday, March 9, 2005

Johnson defense to rest this morning

Jury to begin deliberations Monday


By GREG STAHL
Express Staff Writer

Before Sarah Johnson's team of defense attorneys finished trying their case, 5th District Judge Barry Wood wanted to have a conversation with the 18-year-old, charged with the slayings of her parents two years ago in Bellevue.

"You can not be compelled to testify or required to testify," Wood said. "In other words, you have the right to remain silent."

To each of Wood's fatherly-sounding remarks, Johnson replied, "Yes, your Honor," in a quiet, timid voice.

"Now I want to be real clear to you," Wood said. "I have no idea, and I have no idea of knowing, what this jury will or will not do, but once this trial is concluded, you cannot change your mind about testifying.

"I also want to be clear to you that I cannot and will not give you any advice."

At the conclusion of Wood's five-minute conference with Johnson, the young woman said, "No, I do not" wish to testify. The decision marked the near end of the defense arguments in the case, which started with Johnson's arrest in late October 2003.

When the defense rests, probably first thing this morning, the prosecution will begin a rebuttal that will take between a day and a day-and-a-half, said Blaine County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Thomas.

Closing arguments are scheduled to begin Monday morning. Once closing arguments are finished, 12 of the 18 jurors who have presided over the trial will be selected by a lottery and be sequestered until they reach a verdict.




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