Antonio Armstrong Jr.’s trial enters second week of jury selection
HOUSTON – Antonio Armstrong Jr. is one step closer to the start of the third trial filed against him for the murders of his parents, Dawn and Antonio.
On Monday, prosecutors and defense attorneys spoke with the final five prospective jurors from the first pool of 74 jurors.
Two women were fired, while two men and a woman were asked to return on 31 May.
During the voir dire trial, each prospective juror talks about himself to the attorneys and the judge. They describe their work, passions, family and beliefs.
Two of the jurors shared that they were overwhelmed by the process.
“It was a shock when I walked in,” said one juror. “I didn’t expect that.”
One shared that he was concerned about the financial strain a case like this could cause on their family by losing their job.
Two of the prospective jurors shared that they had recently seen some type of media coverage of the trial.
“I saw something go on on TV,” the other juror told them. “The most important thing for me was the date. It was my father’s birthday.”
A juror spent a few minutes explaining their career as a local journalist. The juror explained that he provided an update on jury selection before becoming a juror.
“I haven’t been here long enough to give you the meat and potatoes,” that juror said. “I don’t know if he personally makes me feel a certain way.”
Both reaffirmed to the judge under oath that they have not openly sought cover-up and will not as they continue the trial.
Overall, 20 of the top 75 prospective jurors were asked to return on May 31.
About 70 new prospective jurors will arrive at the courthouse on Tuesday morning to begin their voir dire trial.
Antonio Armstrong was 16 when he was arrested and accused of murdering his parents. He has maintained his innocence throughout and has the support of his surviving family members.
The case against Armstrong is scheduled to begin on June 5th.
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