JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Action News Jax obtained the request for a gag order filed by Ruben Ebron's attorney this week.
Ebron is the suspect in the disappearance of 21-month-old Lonzie Barton. He's accused of child abuse, giving false information to police and trying to escape from jail. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In the order, Ebron's attorney claims the case could be tried in the media.
“This could result in an inability to seat a fair and impartial jury in Duval County,” Ebron’s attorney claims.
Ebron’s attorney states that the vast majority of statements made by police were prejudicial and inflammatory.
Ebron’s attorney cites Chief Tom Hackney’s comments made about Ebron:
“Without some reasonable explanation from Ruben Ebron as to the location of this child, he needs to understand that this murder case is being built against him; that in no uncertain terms, it’s him we are looking for,” said Hackney during an August press conference.
Jury selection for the trial is scheduled for Dec. 7.
Meanwhile the mother of 21-month-old Lonzie waived her court appearance on Wednesday in Duval County.
Prosecutors in Duval County filed a motion to revoke Lonna Lauramore Barton's bond in Duval County. Lauramore Barton is facing charges of child neglect and giving false information to police in connection with the disappearance of Lonzie.
The judge revoked her bond on all charges. Lauramore Barton is expected back in Duval County court on Oct. 6.