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Rodgers Trial Updates (Monday 10/21): Closing arguments begin

Prosecutors and defense gave their closing arguments for the Rodgers trial Monday. Defense reiterating why Curtis Wayne Wright should not be trusted, and how there is no evidence that proves Rodgers was inside the home where the murder happened.

By: WFTX Digital Team

Posted

and last updated

UPDATE (5:50pm)-- The jury has been dismissed and deliberations begin tomorrow.

#Rodgerstrial: Closing arguments are done for both side. Judge allowed the jury to decide whether they wanted to start deliberation tonight or tomorrow, they decided tomorrow at 9 a.m.
— Sandra Rodriguez (@SandraR_media) October 21, 2019

UPDATE (1:30 PM) -- Closing arguments have begun in the Jimmy Rodgers case. The Defense wants sequestration for the jury. Deliberation will happen Tuesday after Judge Kyle gives instructions and sequestration will happen if a verdict isn't found by the end of Tuesday.

CLOSING STATEMENT happening now.

State says, "Let's start with Teresa's last word, Why."
— Sandra Rodriguez (@SandraR_media) October 21, 2019

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UPDATE (11:20 AM) -- Judge Kyle asked about the time needed for closing arguments. The State says about 3 hours, defense says 2 hours.

They are breaking for an early lunch, and will begin arguments at 12:45 pm.
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UPDATE (10:55 AM) -- Judge Kyle says it is up to the jury members to decide the credibility of the testimonies from Curtis Wright and Taylor Shomaker.

Moves to DENY motion for acquittal.

"There is no evidence what so ever that puts Rodgers in that house," says the defense.

State says the evidence, in this case, is sufficient for the case to go to the jury.

State says there is an eye witness and a statement from Shomaker.

Defense says Shomaker has gotten paid about $19,000 to date through the witness assistance program.
— Sandra Rodriguez (@SandraR_media) October 21, 2019

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FORT MYERS, Fla. -- The murder trial of Jimmy Rodgers for the death of Teresa Sievers resumed Monday morning.

Judge Kyle has denied the defense's motion for acquittal, saying the state has met its burden. Both the state and defense have rested, and motions will continue.

#SIEVERSMURDERTRIAL: Judge Kyle tells Rodgers it is his decision whether or not he decides to testify.

Rodgers says he DOES NOT wish to take the stand.
— Sandra Rodriguez (@SandraR_media) October 21, 2019

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