Peterson Prosecution Finally Has Picked 12 Jurors

DURHAM, N.C. — On Friday, the last day of the second week of jury selection in the Mike Peterson murder trial, the prosecution finally was able to complete its selection of 12 initial jurors.

The defense will begin questioning the group Monday. Those interviews are expected to last through Thursday.

Of the 12 chosen jurors, seven are women and five are men. Six of the jurors are black, and six are white.

Three jurors were chosen Friday.

Judge Orlando Hudson dismissed a potential juror Friday morning. The woman said a neighbor of hers had been murdered and she couldn't handle the emotion of sitting through a murder trial.

Peterson was charged with killing his wife more than a year and a half ago. The Durham novelist said he's been looking forward to getting his day in court, but opening statements still could be several weeks away.