TV to Be Allowed in Van Dam Murder Trial
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A judge ruled Thursday that the trial of David Westerfield, accused of kidnapping and murdering 7-year-old Danielle van Dam, can be broadcast on television but that pretrial motions will remain sealed. The trial is set to begin May 17.
Superior Court Judge William Mudd also ruled that no cameras will be allowed at a May 6 pretrial hearing and that during the trial cameras will not be allowed in the hallway of the courthouse. Mudd said he is trying to keep potential jurors from being influenced by “a pervasive tsunami of media attention.” He continued a gag order on everyone linked to the case.
Westerfield, 50, a self-employed engineer, is accused of kidnapping Danielle from her home Feb. 1. Her body was found four weeks later.
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