Both the prosecution and defense have rested their cases.
Frederick, Md (KM). Deliberations are expected to continue Thursday morning in the case of Tierra Lucas, 30, of Frederick. She is charged with 1st- and 2nd-degree murder for the killing of Brian Graves, 36, also of Frederick. Graves was stabbed outside of the Olde Towne Tavern on April 4th, 2016. He was medivaced to Shock Trauma where he died.
State’s Attorney Charlie Smith says the prosecution wrapped up its case on Tuesday. “We finished our case by calling lead Detective Kevin Forrest from the Frederick Police Department. He testified for most of the day about the investigation of the case, how he responded to the scene. They developed suspects, reviewed evidence and interviewed witnesses,” he says. Detective Forrest also testified that a tipster provided information which led to the arrests of Tierra Lucas, and her sister, Alexis, for Graves’ murder.
Smith says Alexis Lucas’ trial is expected to begin later this month.
The defense also called witnesses to the stand, including two Frederick Police Officers. “They also played the cell phone video again, trying to dispute what it showed,” says Smith.
The state used cell phone video taken at the scene in making its presentation in court.
The defense also wrapped up its case. The case went to the jury on Wednesday. Smith says the panel took a break for the evening, and is expected to resume deliberations on Thursday morning.
During the trial, Graves’ family was in the court room, watching the proceedings. Smith says it has been very trying for them. “Whenever you lose a loved one, it’s extremely difficult,” he says. “especially when you’re hearing attorneys pick apart a case that we feel very confident in.”
But victim witness coordinators are sitting with the family inside the court room. They explain things to them, “try to keep them on track and focused on what we’re trying to do, which is really to obtain justice for the victim in this particular case,” says Smith.
By Kevin McManus