On Thursday, Circuit Court Judge Debra Nelson denied a defense motion to allow certain witnesses to remain anonymous in the George Zimmerman murder trial.
Mark O’Mara, at a pre-trial hearing, argued that anonimity for possibly up to six potential witnesses was crucial to Zimmerman’s right to a fair trial. According to him, these witnesses are concerned for their safety and could face “ridicule or retribution” if they testify truthfully and Zimmerman is acquitted.
But the state and attorneys representing the media pushed back saying, the trial is not a private proceeding and there is no compelling reason to allow for the anonymity of certain witnesses.
Nelson, after listening to arguments on both sides, denied the motion to keep witnesses anonymous, although their names would remain sealed.
Zimmerman is charged with killing Martin on February 26, 2012. He has claimed self-defense.
Prosecutors say, Zimmerman profiled Martin and shot him believed he was going to commit a crime on the night he murdered him.
