ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) - Opening statements are set to get underway in the trial of the man charged with killing a Rochester police officer last year.
Jury selection wrapped up last week for the trial of 39-year-old Thomas Johnson III. Prosecutors and Johnson’s defense attorneys will begin outlining their cases Monday.
Johnson is charged with aggravated murder for the death 32-year-old Daryl Pierson. He’s also been charged with attempted aggravated murder and assault.
If convicted, Johnson could be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The Monroe County district attorney says they may use testimony of Johnson telling another man he’d kill a cop before going back to jail.
Defense attorneys say he’s not responsible for Pierson’s death.
Prosecutors say Johnson was on parole when he fatally shot Pierson after a traffic stop last September.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.