Following closing arguments from the defense attorney and the rebuttal from a prosecutor, George Zimmerman's fate now entirely lies in the hands of the six women jurors selected to consider the evidence in the murder trial involving the shooting to death of Trayvon Martin.

The 29-year-old former neighborhood watch volunteer could face up to life in prison if convicted of second-degree murder for killing the 17-year-old Miami teenager on February 26, 2012. Zimmerman shot Martin as the two fought following a confrontation in the gated Sanford community where Zimmerman lives.

"Your verdict should not be influenced by feelings of prejudice, bias or sympathy," Seminole County Judge Debra Nelson told the panel, as she read the instructions. "Your verdict must be based on the evidence, and on the law contained in these instructions."

The judge told the jurors they can also consider the lesser charge of manslaughter, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years.

Race has been one of the issues surrounding the trial. Some people belief race played a role in Zimmerman's actions since he is Hispanic and Martin was Black.

The jury's verdict is sure to elicit some reactions. Already, there are folks who do not trust the jurors to make the "right" decision, because of their racial makeup (five Whites an one Hispanic). Whichever way it turns out, at least one group will likely be unhappy.

I believe the jurors will make the best decision based the evidence provided. It's important to note that no matter how much evidence we read about or see in the news, these women have seen more evidence than we did. The sensitivity of the case also makes it difficult to pass a biased verdict (I hope).

Regardless of what the verdict turns out to be, this case has certainly drawn national (and international) attention to issues of race and gun laws while highlighting the sharp divisions over these issues in the United States.

Have Your Say

Based on what you've read or heard about the case, what do you think is likely to happen? What are your thoughts on the jury makeup?

http://www.infonubia.com/2013/07/george-zimmermanwhat-happens-next.html