A juror in the trial of a man accused of murdering his newlywed wife was replaced Tuesday after prosecutors revealed she failed to disclose her involvement in another case.
The dramatic twist happened shortly before Michel Escoto, who is representing himself in the murder trial, could begin to present his case.
It was revealed in court that the juror is a witness in a lewd and lascivious case where her daughter was the victim, yet didn't disclose the information during the jury selection process. She was removed from the case and replaced by an alternate juror.
Escoto, 42, is accused of killing wife Wendy Trapaga in October 2002 to collect a $1 million insurance policy. The couple had returned from their honeymoon just days earlier.
Prosecutors wrapped up their case Monday, and after Tuesday's jury drama, Escoto began to mount his defense.
The trial has provided for some awkward moments as Escoto, who isn't an attorney, defends himself. Last week, he was held in contempt of court after he allegedly threatened a witness on the stand.
