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NEW YORK.- The final composition of the jury for the trial of Genaro Garcia Lunabut the parties agreed with Judge Brian Cogan to start the hearings on January 23, in the process that will last at least eight weeks, according to recent estimates.
The reason is that that time would barely be enough to cover a list of at least 70 witnesses and cooperators, according to the defense attorney. Cesar de Castro during jury selection in the Eastern District Court in New York.
Although it is not the final figure, since it may be lower or higher, depending on pending negotiations with some cooperators or witnesses.
This Wednesday the selection of the jury continued to refine a list of more than 150 possible members, of which more than 50 were withdrawn, to later make a more precise analysis and determine the 12 members of the panel and the six replacements.
The jury selection process has made it possible to understand the concerns of prosecutors, represented by Saritha Komatireddy, who have sought to stop the advance of New Yorkers with opinions against the government, the police and any other law enforcement agency, such as the FBI or DEA.
Prosecutor Komatireddy has also sought to stop those people who question the participation of cooperators in the García Luna proceeding, since potential jurors point out that those people who cooperate with authorities have already committed crimes and it is difficult to believe them.
Meanwhile, the defense has been focused on preventing the advance of possible jurors who fully defend the authorities and question that elements of police corporations commit crimes.
García Luna has been very attentive to the selection of the jury, listening to arguments from the possible members of the panel that will decide his future on the five charges against him, including leading a criminal group for a long period and three for conspiracy to traffic cocaine. To united states.
The former Secretary of Public Security of the government of Felipe Calderon He returned to wearing the navy blue suit, white shirt and gray tie.
When Judge Kuo called everyone interviewed to explain new instructions, García Luna would turn around to observe all the people summoned.
One of the constant concerns of potential jurors is the lack of pay during the eight weeks that they must attend the trial. Some have managed to resolve the issue with their employers, but others have not, although it is not the main reason for being dismissed.
This Thursday, the parties will decide the final integration of the jury.