Actions

Jury selection is underway in the trial of George Burch

Posted at 11:46 AM, Feb 16, 2018
and last updated 2018-02-16 19:33:28-05

The selection of 14 jurors Friday marked the last step before a trial in a high-profile case.

When a judge asked potential jurors who had heard of the George Burch case, the vast majority raised their hands. The judge excused some of them who said that with their knowledge they can't be impartial. Attorneys then took over looking for the same, asking jurors about anything that could prevent them from being fair and partial.

Prosecutors and Burch's defense asked about potential jurors backgrounds and experiences with what's expected to be key pieces of evidence..

"Who has used a gps map either on a phone or through a gps device," District Attorney David Lasee asked. "How many of you have ever worn a fitbit device?"

Jurors will weigh that evidence and upcoming testimony in determining the guilt or innocence of George Burch. He's accused of killing Nicole VanderHeyden in May 2016. Her body was recovered in a field a few miles from her home. Police arrested Burch two months after first arresting VanderHyden's boyfriend, Douglass Detrie. Burch's defense says Detrie committed the crime.

With a jury now selected, opening statements will begin Monday morning. The trial is expected to last two weeks.