Jurors are expected to answer an array of questions including about their political and racial views.
SPRINGFIELD – The first day of jury selection in open court in a high-profile church arson case will begin today in U.S. District Court.
Prospective jurors were culled down via a written questionnaire on Monday and Tuesday. Michael F. Jacques Jr., 26, of Springfield, was one of three defendants charged with torching the Macedonia Church of God in Christ in November 2008 - hours after the presidential election - to denounce President Barack Obama as the nation’s first black leader.
Two defendants already have pleaded guilty in the case. Jurors are expected to answer an array of questions including about their political and racial views, in court on Wednesday. Testimony and evidence begins March 21.