93.9 The Eagle – The News and Talk of Columbia, MO
A jury will hear opening statements Tuesday morning at the Boone County Courthouse in Joseph Elledge’s murder trial.
The 26-year-old Columbia man is charged with first degree murder for the 2019 death of his wife, Menggi Ji.
Monday’s jury selection process took extra time, due to microphone problems for both Boone County Prosecutor Dan Knight and defense attorney Scott Rosenblum. Elledge wore a dark suit, white shirt and blue tie in court on Monday, sitting next to defense attorney Scott Rosenblum.
Several potential jurors told the court that they had already formed an opinion about the case, based on what they’ve seen or heard in the news media. Judge Jacobs made it clear to all potential jurors that they must be able to set aside any opinions they have, and base their decisions on what happens during the trial.
Judge Jacobs has set aside three weeks for the trial.
