The trial for state parole agent Kevin Seelinger officially began, just over one year and three months after the shooting death of Marchello Woodard. A jury will decide whether Seelinger is guilty of homicide.
Family members of Woodard and community advocates gave their reactions following the first day of testimony. Relatives expressed a combination of relief that the trial was underway and concern over the composition of the jury.
Deonte Cooley, a cousin of Marchello Woodard, has been involved with reformation protests since the shooting. Cooley expressed satisfaction with how the first day of testimony proceeded, while urging patience during the trial. “To see things get underway… I’m glad,” Cooley said. “From the way things went in the beginning from day one… for what it’s worth I think it went well. Honestly I do think it went well.” He added that the legal process should not be hurried. “It’s not something that I would like to see rushed or something that I would like tomorrow to come up with a decision,” Cooley said. “I’m trusting the process… paying attention to details. Hopefully the district attorney is paying attention to details. Hopefully the jury is paying attention to details and everybody will be fair.”…