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Last updated on Monday, November 4, 2013
(FORT WAYNE) - The jury heard closing arguments Monday in the trial of suspended Indianapolis Metro Police Officer David Bisard after a tumultuous morning in court.
The state made closings arguments Monday morning, followed by the defense.
Another juror was dismissed Monday morning, and Judge John Surbeck was close to declaring a mistrial.
The court learned that juror number 12 did some research on his own Thursday night. He announced his findings Friday morning.
The juror googled information about blood alcohol testing machines and convictions that have been overturned in Illinois. The judge immediately dismissed the juror.
Judge Surbeck then questioned each juror and one alternate. Some did not hear the juror's remarks Friday. Jurors who heard the remarks assured the judge they could put them aside and focus entirely on testimony and evidence in court.
However, one juror admitted the information would be in the back of her mind. She said, "I think my decision will be based on what I heard here by witnesses and counsel."
Another juror was dismissed just before the trial got underway weeks ago and a second juror was dismissed due to a work issue. The final alternate has been seated. That leaves the trial with no alternate jurors as the jury is set to begin deliberations after hearing closing arguments.
Bisard faces the following:
Count 1: Operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .15 or higher causing death; B felony
Count 2: Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death; C felony
Count 3: Reckless homicide; C felony
Count 4: Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing serious bodily injury; D felony
Count 5: Operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher causing serious bodily injury; D felony
Count 6: Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing serious bodily injury; D felony
Count 7: Operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher causing serious bodily injury; D felony
Counts 8 & 9: Criminal recklessness; D felony
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