Posted: 8:45 AM Apr 17, 2012
Reporter: Associated Press

A western Kentucky newspaper is opposing a prosecutor's request to close pretrial hearings in a deadly 1998 dorm fire at Murray State University.

The Paducah Sun reports that its attorney, Mark Whitlow, cited a Kentucky Supreme Court decision that puts strict limits on situations in which court proceedings can be closed.

Prosecutor Mark Blankenship filed motions this month to close hearings in the case against Jerry Wayne Walker of Paducah, who faces trial in July on charges of manslaughter, arson, assault and wanton endangerment. The fire in Hester Hall killed 19-year-old Michael Minger, of Niceville, Fla., and later prompted broad changes in campus fire security in Kentucky.

Walker went to trial in 2001, but a mistrial was declared after jurors deadlocked. Prosecutors charged Walker again in September.

WBKO Mobile Home

Gray Television, Inc - Copyright 2002-2012 - Powered by Gray Interactive Media

Full Site