Opening Statements Begin In George Zimmerman Trial

SANFORD, Fla. (AP) — George Zimmerman's defense attorneys said in opening statements that the neighborhood watch volunteer fatally shot Trayvon Martin in self-defense.

Defense attorney Don West told jurors Monday that Zimmerman was being viciously attacked when he shot the 17-year-old Miami-area teen.

West outlined the defense case moments after a prosecutor said in his opening statements that Zimmerman was profiling Martin shortly before he confronted the teen last year.

Zimmerman is pleading not guilty to second-degree murder, claiming self-defense.

The case attracted worldwide attention following protests that erupted when Zimmerman wasn't arrested for 44 days after the shooting.


Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.

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