Markeith Loyd will no longer represent himself in murder trial of Orlando police officer

ORLANDO, Fla. — Just two days after Markeith Loyd decided he would continue to represent himself, he changed his mind.

Loyd said he couldn’t get access to the law library enough to prepare and wanted more time.

The judge said no, and now he will be represented again by his attorney Terence Lenamon.

Loyd had several outbursts in court on Friday, trying to explain to the judge why he feared police and why that is so important in his defense.

His trial will begin on Oct. 8 with jury selection.

Hundreds of jurors will be called in this high-profile case, but it will be done a bit differently because of COVID-19.

Some days the judge will bring in 300 jurors a day and break them up in four groups, so not so many people will be packed in together.

There are also ongoing discussions if judges will ask jurors if they are vaccinated.

No decision has been made on that but she made it clear, you can’t use your status as an excuse not to serve.

They will be informed that this is not a reason, it is a choice.

Jurors will wear clear masks and Loyd can also wear one if he wants.

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Shannon Butler, WFTV.com