Professor enters not guilty plea
Thomas Murray's trial to begin Feb. 14, expected to last six weeks
A Kansas State University English professor pleaded not guilty Friday to charges of murdering his ex-wife.
Thomas E. Murray, 48, was arraigned in Douglas County District Court. Defense attorney Bob Eye entered the not guilty plea on behalf of his client, who faces one count of premeditated, first-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Carmin Ross. Ross’ body was found Nov. 14, 2003, inside a home she rented with her daughter near Lakeview, northwest of Lawrence. A week ago, Judge Robert Fairchild ruled there was enough evidence presented during the weeklong preliminary hearing to establish probable cause that Murray killed his ex-wife.
Friday, the judge scheduled a jury trial in the case for Feb. 14. The trial is expected to last six weeks.
Because of the extensive media coverage of the preliminary hearing, defense attorneys asked the judge if prospective jurors could be required to complete a questionnaire about their knowledge of the case before reporting for jury duty.
The judge took the issue under advisement, saying potential jurors will most likely be required to complete a questionnaire.
The judge also set a Jan. 21 deadline for both sides to file motions in the case.
6News video: Professor enters not guilty plea (12-17-04)
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