NEW YORK (AP) — The judge in Donald Trump’s hush money trial ordered the media on Thursday not to report on where potential jurors have worked and to be careful about revealing information about those who will sit in judgment of the former president.
Judge Juan Merchan acted after one juror was dismissed when she expressed concerns about being “outed” for her role in the case after details about her became publicly known.
The actions pointed to the difficulties involved in trying to maintain anonymity for jurors in a case that has sparked wide interest and heated opinions, while lawyers need to sift through as much information as possible in a public courtroom to determine who to choose.
Despite the setback, 12 jurors were seated by the end of Thursday for the historic trial over a $130,000 hush money payment shortly before the 2016 election to porn actor Stormy Daniels to prevent her from making public her claims of a sexual meeting with Trump years earlier. Trump has denied the encounter.
AP Week in Pictures: North America
Giving Children in Mountains More Chances to Excel in Life
Entrepreneur Uses New Technology to Boost Development of Yao
Community's 'Guardian Angel' Helps Residents Live Better Lives
Seattle Storm become 2nd WNBA team to open their own practice facility
Exploring 'Key to Green Development'
Tianjin's cruise tourism industry set for post
Israeli intelligence 'jammed GPS signals to confuse attackers'
As earnings season rolls into its heart, hopes rise for broader gains
Australian Teaching Special Needs Kids in China
China bans Uyghurs from using social media apps — Radio Free Asia
Beautiful Family Moments — Through Children's Eyes