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February 26, 2008

Update: Prospective jurors for smoke-shop trial grilled

PROVIDENCE -- Prospective jurors in the trial of the seven Narragansett Indians accused of resisting and fighting with state police during the 2003 smoke-shop raid were barraged today with questions ranging from their thoughts on smoking to their opinions about casino gambling.

Prosecutors and defense lawyers are trying to pick a jury for the estimated month-long trial in Providence County Superior Court, and today the state got its first chance to question those who might end up hearing the case.

Special Assistant Attorney General Maria Deaton asked the 16 people seated, at least temporarily, about their thoughts on cigarettes, whether they had strong opinions about casino gambling or had participated in rallies or given money to the cause.

A court spokesman earlier today said the judge excused jurors this morning who could not attend what could be a month-long trial

Seven Narragansett Indians, including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas, face misdemeanor charges related to the state police raid on a tribal smoke shop that grew violent in July 2003.

-- Journal staff writer Katie Mulvaney, with Associated Press reports

Posted by Mike McKinney  at 6:44 PM | Permalink

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