Opinions remained sharply divided.
Yet regardless of where people stood, nearly everyone agreed on one thing:
The verdict would have enormous consequences.
The Judge Speaks
When the judge finally began speaking, the courtroom became completely silent.
Even the reporters stopped typing.
Every eye focused on the bench.
Every ear strained to catch each word.
The judge reviewed the lengthy legal process that had brought the case to this point.
He thanked jurors for their service.
He acknowledged the seriousness of the proceedings.