George Zimmerman, the self-appointed neighborhood watch captain, made his first appearance before a judge in a Seminole County court room Thursday afternoon.
The judge set a formal arraignment date for May 29, after reading the charges to Zimmerman. Asked by the judge whether he was being represented by Mr. O’Mara, Zimmerman replied, “yes, sir.”
While Zimmerman’s appearance was brief, present in court was State Attorney and special prosecutor, Angela Corey.
Yesterday, Corey announced second degree murder charges against Zimmerman for the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin, an unharmed black teen.
Read Affidavit of Probable Cause – Second Degree Murder Here.
During the proceedings, Mark O’Mara, Zimmerman’s new attorney, requested a complete sealing of documents associated with the case and the state agreed. His concern stemmed from the piece meal fashion with which information is being handled in the case. The judge said that the probable cause affidavit is already out in the public, but agreed to seal other documents for now, although this will be revisited.
There is speculation that a complete sealing of the case file will be challenged given Florida’s SunShine State laws.
Facing the cameras following Zimmerman’s court appearance, O’Mara said after a discussion with his client, a decision had been taken not to make a bond motion today. He said though that this could happen in the next couple of weeks.
“It’s possible he will get bond based upon what the judge decides,” O’Mara said.
Asked about Zimmerman’s demeanor, O’Mara said that his client is tired.
“He is troubled by everything that has happened,” he said. “I cannot imagine living in George Zimmerman’s shoes for the past few weeks.”
O’Mara said he is glad that a process is now in place and it is his hope that tensions will calm down, not only in Sanford but around the country.
Zimmerman remains in protective custody in the Seminole County Jail. Since his arrest, his concealed weapons permit has been suspended.
