OKLAHOMA CITY -- An Oklahoma County judge ruled that cameras will be allowed inside the courtroom for the trial of a metro pharmacist accused of murder. News Channel Four, along with several other media outlets, filed the motion to televise the trial of 58-year-old Jerome Ersland. Ersland is charged with murdering 16-year-old Antwun Parker during a botched robbery attempt at Ersland's pharmacy back in May.
The prosecution, defense and Ersland himself all gave their OK to allowing cameras inside the trial.
Despite some concerns, in the end, the judge agreed.
"I'm glad its on TV. I wish every case was televised. I think you can't hide things under a basket. I think it brings the justice system into the light," said defense attorney Irven Box.
"The people that are interested in this case need to have the opportunity to see the evidence as its presented, so they can make up their own mind," said district attorney David Prater.
The judge did say there would be some restrictions.
For example, jury questioning won't be televised and jurors won't be identified in any way.
Ersland's trial is expected to take place sometime next year.
The prosecution, defense and Ersland himself all gave their OK to allowing cameras inside the trial.
Despite some concerns, in the end, the judge agreed.
"I'm glad its on TV. I wish every case was televised. I think you can't hide things under a basket. I think it brings the justice system into the light," said defense attorney Irven Box.
"The people that are interested in this case need to have the opportunity to see the evidence as its presented, so they can make up their own mind," said district attorney David Prater.
The judge did say there would be some restrictions.
For example, jury questioning won't be televised and jurors won't be identified in any way.
Ersland's trial is expected to take place sometime next year.
