Listening to jury selection hearing for Whitmer trial. A good mix of citizens who don't follow the news/politics and those with strong views (for/against) on Gov. Whitmer.
Unlike January 6, national news coverage of this case basically disappeared after FBI involvement exposed.
"I only look at the weather." Very typical Midwestern response, lol. "It's bi-polar."
FIVE people with no cable--love this. Lawyer is shocked. Working class area, 2nd person with 6 children.
Doesn't seem like there will be a problem seating a jury.
There is some consistent coverage in Detroit News but coverage of this case otherwise has been sparse. Unless the jurors read BuzzFeed or Revolver or AmGreatness, it's unlikely they've read a lot about what's unfolded especially related to FBI deep involvement.
Prosecutor now asking about views on law enforcement and any ties to law enforcement officials.
One woman has a cousin in the FBI. Prosecutor says there will be FBI witnesses--this is same woman who said she has a "strong opinion" about the case already, can't be objective.
Asks how many have firearms at home. Most people raise their hands.
Break time.
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Good morning! Whitmer "kidnapping" trial already underway. FBI Agent under cross-ex by Chris Gibbons, Adam Fox's atty. Most of the evidence so far consists of Facebook videos posted on Fox's account.
FBI agent confirms informants infiltrated chat groups and gave FBI access.
FBI agent explains how CHSs are retained. No signed agreement required?
FBI uses a code name to arrange payments. Agent says CHSs do not have to submit receipts to FBI to obtain reimbursements. This seems extremely sloppy if true.
Agent explains how FBI hires CHS--it's alarming
CHSs are paid cash only. FBI runs background check on CHS but not a credit check. Agent only has to tell supervisor what the CHS will do and maybe CHS motivation for approval
FBI gives general orders and admonishments--also furnishes recording devices. Some look like key fobs.
And we're back to Whitmer trial after break so both sides can prepare for FBI entrapment defense.
Judge tells jury he hoped to put off entrapment issues until after DOJ rested but it's not possible to "segment" the argument. Defense, prosecutor will present new opening arguments
Whooo boy. Croft atty not holding back. "The FBI is supposed to protect us and protect our rights. They are not supposed punish people who say mean things about them. We expect the FBI to use responsible tactics."
Croft was criticizing FBI on Facebook in 2017, made him a target
Blanchard, Croft atty, now blasting CHS Steve as a longtime criminal who committed crimes in 9 states.
CHS Steve was "plying guys with drugs" at every event. "Out of their minds stoned." Violates FBI rules.
FBI ignored CHS Steve behavior. Also selectively record defendants.
Government opening: "They were going to break into the governor's home and take her away. This was not just talk. Their actions were just as...disturbing as their words. They performed reconnaissance at her home, twice. But it was when they tried to buy the bomb..
that the government stopped" the plot.
Jury will hear from 2 undercover agents-- these are the FBI agents whose identities DOJ wanted to conceal from the jury and prevent artist from sketching their faces. Judge denied request.
Hearing now in Whitmer case on defense pre-trial motion to obtain more information about payments, etc to numerous FBI informants.
Defense asking for all documents including agreements btw FBI and informants. "We should have those materials," Adam Fox's attorney says.
Records relating to CHS Jenny, CHS Dan, CHS Steve.
Asking for admonishments to those CHSs. Payment ledgers--amounts and dates they were paid for either services or reimbursements.
"Government allowed people in this case to do things that were not necessarily lawful."
Atty also wants info on FBI vetting process on CHSs.
"We would like whatever documentation the FBI uses in the vetting and validation process. We know for a fact...that FBI has nondisclosure agreement with CHS Steve." Robeson is a convicted felon who committed at least...