News

Witness testimony discussed at Day 2 of Sean Grayson trial

Witness testimony discussed at Day 2 of Sean Grayson trial

Peoria County Courthouse Photo: Saga Communications/Will Stevenson/File


Peoria, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – It was a short day Tuesday at the Peoria County Courthouse, where the Sean Grayson murder trial was moved to.

Because twelve jurors and three alternates were picked quickly Monday, that left Tuesday to deal with some motions filed by the prosecution and defense this past Friday.  They’re essentially motions in limine — or, motions that often limit the restrictions of certain witness testimony.

Three witnesses were of concern.  At issue was what those witnesses could say and not say during testimony.  Defense attorneys were concerned with the ability of some witnesses to be able to describe medical-related issues, while others dealt with the use of words like reasonable and justified, among others.  In one case, terminology in law enforcement standards nationally, versus those in Sangamon County, were discussed.

In the end, despite the court filings, both sides worked the issues out, but the motions were kept “reserved” — meaning, they could be dealt with again when the witnesses actually take the stand.

Several members of Sonya Massey’s family were in court Tuesday with father James Wilburn.  Unlike Monday, there was no outside rally.

Opening statements will be held Wednesday at 9 a.m.  Expect frequent reports once again on WTAX, and a live blog on CapitolCityNow.com.

Recent Headlines

16 hours ago in Entertainment

Sesame Street’s new season: Bubba Wallace, Netflix and a whole lot of chickens

New home. Some format changes. Same monsters. "Sesame Street" launches its 56th season on Nov. 10 with NASCAR champion Bubba Wallace as a guest, a slightly tweaked format and a new way to watch — via Netflix.

16 hours ago in Entertainment, Music

Bruce Springsteen performs at New York Public Library gala

Bruce Springsteen was among six honorees Monday night at the New York Public Library's annual "Library Lions" gala, which pays tribute to "outstanding achievements" in arts, culture, letters and scholarship.

16 hours ago in Sports

College Football Playoff opens with 1 game Dec. 19 and 3 more on Dec. 20; TV and kickoff times set

The College Football Playoff will open with one first-round game on Dec. 19 and three more on Dec. 20, CFP administrators announced Tuesday.