WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (AP) - A jury has been selected in the trial of a man accused of killing his former girlfriend’s 5-year-old daughter, lawyers said Monday.
A prosecutor and defense attorney in the trial of Casey Frederiksen began questioning potential jurors Monday morning and narrowed a pool of more than 100 to a panel of five women and seven men by early evening. They also chose two alternates.
Prosecutors allege Frederiksen, 35, was watching Evelyn Miller for her mother in July 2005 when he sexually abused the girl and stabbed her to death. He was charged with first-degree murder and sexual assault in 2012.
The Floyd girl’s body was found in the Cedar River a few days after she was reported missing. According to court documents, the child sustained multiple stab wounds to her chest and neck.
During the selection process, prosecutor Douglas Hammerand and defense attorney Aaron Hawbaker warned potential jurors about sensitive evidence expected to be displayed at trial, including autopsy photos.
Hawbaker asked them to distinguish between their emotions and the law as they’re presented evidence, saying that a guilty verdict is only plausible with proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Hammerand also questioned their ability to consider evidence objectively.
The trial is being held in Webster City in Hamilton County because a judge granted a change-of-venue request to move it from Floyd County. Opening statements are expected Tuesday, weather permitting.
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