Judge in Trayvon Martin case refuses to step down
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August 7, 2012
Florida: Judge Kenneth R. Lester Jr. has refused to step down from the murder trial of George Zimmerman, who is convicted of shooting and killing the unarmed Trayvon Martin. The judge said the defense's request was "legally insufficient".[1]
Zimmerman's lawyer filed a motion last month asking for the judge to step down, pointing to potential bias. Specifically, he noted "disparaging remarks" made by the judge toward Zimmerman in a bond-related ruling.[1] In that ruling, held on July 5, prosecutors accused Zimmerman and his wife of lying to the court about finances. Zimmerman's attorney held that his client did not pose a threat to the community and was merely confused. Judge Lester, however, wrote, "The defendant has tried to manipulate the system when he has been presented the opportunity to do so."[1]
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