The defense is expected to call 20 witnesses this week, and the state has two rebuttal witnesses to call before the penalty phase is over.
1:35 p.m. update
The state has rested its case in the penalty phase of the trial. The defense is now calling witnesses to the stand. Their first witness is Brian Savelli with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Clayton’s cousin Francine Thomas testified that she and Clayton had recently reconnected and were inseparable until the day Clayton died.
In an emotional round of testimony, Thomas said Clayton needed to go to the Walmart where she was shot and killed to buy ingredients for a shepherd’s pie dinner she was going to make for her husband.
Video: Penalty phase of Markeith Loyd’s murder trial continues for 2nd day Tuesday marks day two in the penalty phase of the Markeith Loyd trial. (Shannon Butler, WFTV.com)
Emotional testimony is continuing from witnesses reflecting on Clayton’s life and death.
ORIGINAL STORY
On Tuesday, we expect prosecutors to talk about the use of force by Orlando police during Loyd’s arrest, telling the jury that should not factor in their decision when they decide if Loyd should be sent to death row.
The defense will try to sway the jury by saying Loyd has already suffered a tough childhood, time in prison and the loss of his eye.
Video: Day 2 of Markeith Loyd’s penalty phase begins (Q McCray, WFTV.com)
On Monday, Orlando‘s District 5 Commissioner Regina Hill told the jury what Clayton meant to her.
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