George Zimmerman Pleads Not Guilty In Shooting Death Of Trayvon Martin
May 8 2012, Published 4:00 a.m. ET
By Debbie Emery - RadarOnline.com Reporter
George Zimmerman did not appear in court for Tuesday’s arraignment and instead a written plea of “not guilty” was submitted on his behalf, while attorneys waived his right to a speedy trial.
The defense "needs additional time to prepare,” explained Mark O’Mara in a message to Judge Kenneth Lester in the Seminole County, Florida courtroom, reported the Orlando Sentinel.
As RadarOnline.com previously reported the 28-year-old neighborhood watch volunteer could face life in prison and be hit with up to $10,000 in fines for the shooting death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin from Sanford, Florida, which has caused outrage across the country.
Martin was killed on February 26 as he was walking through a gated community, carrying candy and iced tea. Zimmerman shot the teen, claiming it was in self defense, and has subsequently been charged with second degree murder and released on $150,000 bond.
- Judge Throws Out Family’s Lawsuit Accusing Beetlejuice Character at Universal Studios of Using Racist Hand Gesture
- Jeff Bezos' Fiancée Lauren Sanchez Accused of Ripping Off Children's Book From Ex-Yoga Teacher, Faces Copyright Infringement Lawsuit
- REVEALED: Ex-'As the World Turns' Star Cady McClain Hit Soap Star Husband Jon Lindstrom With Divorce Papers Months Before Announcing Split
Tuesday’s formal proceedings took approximately 30 seconds. The next stage in the controversial trial is a docket sounding, which is essentially a planning and scheduling hearing, on August 8.
RELATED STORIES:
George Zimmerman Raised $204k From Online Donations, Prosecutors Seeking Higher Bond
Trayvon Martin's Parents Will Be Attending George Zimmerman's Murder Trial Everyday
George Zimmerman Apologizes To Trayvon Martin’s Parents On Stand: ‘I’m Sorry For The Loss Of Your Son’