Jury selection is underway in Lafayette City Marshal Brian Pope’s perjury and malfeasance trial.
Court ended around 4:45 Tuesday afternoon, and the potential jury was narrowed down to 30 jurors. So far, no jurors have been selected. Sources tell KATC attorneys questioned two panels of prospective jurors.
Around 11:15 this morning, Judge David Smith asked the public to clear the courtroom so the state and defense could interview prospective jurors who could be dismissed for cause. We were told anyone who knows Pope or has seen him in the media were dismissed.
Expect this to be a lengthy process as attorneys are looking to seat a jury of 14 people, two of which will serve as alternates.
Judge Smith advised the jury pool to stay away from the media and researching anything dealing with this case. He said the last thing anyone wants is a mistrial.
Court will begin around 8:30 Wednesday morning.
