After the jury was selected in the Antonio Goodwin trial, opening statements were made and the prosecution began their case yesterday at the Lee County Justice Center.
Goodwin, Shaun Kitchens, Michael McNeil and Dakota Mosley are charged with counts of first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary and third-degree theft of property for an alleged home invasion in Conway Acres mobile home park.
The prosecution's opening statements outlined what they say happened the night of March 10 and into the early morning of March 11.
Assistant District Attorney Kenny Gibbs said Goodwin, McNeil and Kitchens entered the home and threatened force as they took a safe from the residence. He said Goodwin was armed when he entered the home.
Gibbs said, "This case isn't about fingerprints or DNA," and admitted upfront that the case and handguns recovered had no fingerprints or DNA on them after forensic investigation.
Gibbs said Goodwin and the others decided they were going to "get a lick," which he said is street terms for "rob somebody."
Goodwin's attorney, Lauryn Lauderdale, reminded the jury in her opening statement of the definition of robbery, emphasizing the state's need to prove every aspect of the definition.
Lauderdale asked the jury not to leave their common sense and life experience at the door and to remember her client is presumed to be innocent.
The opening statements were followed by a string of forensic and evidence experts as the prosecution began their case.
The final witness of the day was Auburn football player Anthony Morgan, whose written statement to the Auburn Police Department was cause of some confusion.
Lauderdale presented a statement to Mason that he said was not his, despite his name being at the end of it.
The trial resumes this morning at the Lee County Justice Center.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
