Kent trial begins
By Gwendolynne Larson
Originally published 02:28 p.m., June 23, 2008
Updated 02:28 p.m., June 23, 2008
Jury selection began this morning in the trial of a Topeka man accused of killing an Americus teen.
Theron Thomas Kent is charged with involuntary manslaughter, attempted unlawful taking of wildlife, hunting without permission and criminal discharge of a firearm. The charges stem from the Dec. 15 shooting death of Beau Arndt, who was hunting in northwest Lyon County.
Prospective jurors filled the jury box and gallery of Chief Judge Merlin Wheeler’s courtroom this morning as they listened to and answered questions. Early questioning involved whether they knew any attorneys in the case, the Arndt family or Kent and his family and whether they had any knowledge of the case that would affect their ability to render a fair and impartial verdict.
A few in the pool indicated they knew some attorneys or the Arndt family. Several more indicated they had heard about the case beforehand. None was excused during the early questioning.
Jury selection was expected to continue through much of today. If necessary, it will continue Tuesday morning. Once a jury of 12 plus two alternates is seated, attorneys will give their opening statements.