News

How long could Michael Dunn jury deliberations last?

It’s a question you start asking as soon as you learn a verdict is in the hands of a jury- just how long will a decision take.

As we now enter a third day of deliberations over the verdict for Michael Dunn, it may be no shock that the clock keeps ticking.

“They know that the community is watching, they know that the country is watching, and they want to get it right,” says WOKV’s Legal Analyst Mark Rubin.

Rubin says in a capitol murder case, it’s common to see deliberations take a few days, especially when the case itself is so emotionally charged. What’s further complicating this specific deliberation is Dunn’s claim that he was justified in his use of deadly force.

“They can’t get to the issues of First Degree Murder, Second Degree Murder, or Manslaughter until they get past this self-defense issue,” Rubin says.

The multiple verdict considerations are still another complicating factor, with the jury able to consider two lesser charges if they decide Dunn is not guilty of First Degree Murder.

So while Dunn, the attorneys, the families involved and trial watchers alike try to speculate whether a lengthier deliberation will weigh more favorably for the state or the defense, Rubin says only one thing is certain.

“As long as there’s hope, the judge will let them continue to deliberate.”

And he expects that will last through at least a good part of Friday as well.

Jurors met past 8 PM Wednesday, but opted to end their day at 6:15 Thursday in order to eat dinner back at the hotel where they remain sequestered. Deliberations resume at 9 AM.

WOKV is providing you instant updates on the latest in this verdict watch on Twitter (@NewsAndNom and @WOKVNews). You can also be the first to know when a verdict is reached by signing up for our text alerts- text the word “ALERT” to 70123.  Additionally, we will bring you live anchored coverage of the verdict when it’s in on 104.5FM/AM690.

mobile apps

Everything you love about wokv.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!