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New judge takes over Michael Dunn trial

The trial for the man accused of fatally shooting Jordan Davis at a Southside gas station will move forward with a new judge on the bench.

Judge Suzanne Bass had recused herself from the trial following a motion filed by the defendant, Michael Dunn, claiming he would not be able to get a fair trial under Bass.

The motion listed a number of reasons why Dunn felt he could not receive a fair trial. The motion was granted because of his complaints regarding ex-parte communication between Bass and an attorney regarding Dunn's financial status and motion for indigence.  Dunn wanted a JAC attorney to testify via phone at an April 29th hearing to support Dunn's claim of indigence, however, that request not granted. Additionally, it was discovered Bass had spoken with that attorney outside of the courtroom.

Dunn also filed a complaint that Bass had apparently ignored outbursts by Jordan Davis’ father in court. The motion which granted the request for recusal specifically states that in itself would not warrant the motion be granted.

Dunn is charged with first degree murder for Davis’ death. He is also charged with three counts of attempted murder for each of the three teens who were in the car with Davis.

Judge Mallory Cooper will replace Bass for the remainder of the trail. Cooper is no stranger to high profile cases- she presided over the trial and ultimate plea deal of Cristian Fernandez.

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