‘House of Horrors’: Russell Tillis trial

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The first day of jury selection has wrapped up in the Russell Tillis trial.

So far, 10 jurors have been selected. Two more will be seated this week.

Tillis is accused of killing and dismembering Joni Gunter. Her body was found buried in his backyard in 2016.

Tillis is charged with murder, kidnapping, human trafficking and abuse of a human body. He is facing the death penalty if convicted.

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His trial comes after years of delays, and countless requests from Tillis to represent himself. The latest attempt was denied by a judge.

Tillis retained a specific lawyer for jury selection. She specializes in the ‘Colorado Method’ which aims to choose jurors that are more likely to choose a life sentence upon conviction.

In Florida a jury must be unanimous in a death penalty recommendation in order for the judge to impose one.

Jury selection continues Tuesday.

Cox Media Group