Trial starts in attack on cross-dresser

By Pete Skiba (2291)
pete.skiba@albanyherald.com

As of Tuesday, October 23, 2012
© Copyright 2013 Albany Herald

Brian White

ALBANY, Ga. -- The trial of Brian Jeremy White, accused of armed robbery and aggravated assault in a Sept. 11, 2010 attack on Eric Hayes, began before 12 jurors and two alternates Tuesday.

The grand jury report stated that Hayes' "handbag/purse" was stolen by White and that White shot Hayes in the left leg during the crime.

Following opening arguments, Hayes took the stand. An attorney in the audience described Hayes' clothing, a black and white pattern blouse and black slacks, as being more a transgender style than cross-dressing.

The jury, made up of 10 women and four men, did not seem to have any trouble following Hayes' testimony as he made piercing eye contact with defense attorney Jim Finkelstein under questioning.

Finkelstein apparently tried to point out discrepancies in Hayes' previous deposition testimony and other testimony given by Hayes at trial.

An obvious quirk in the questioning of Hayes during the trial was that Finkelstein referred to Hayes as "Mr. Hayes," while at times Assistant District Attorney Steven Lee referred to Hayes by feminine pronouns.

Superior Court Judge J. Richard Porter is presiding over the case in the Albany-Dougherty Judicial Building. It continues today.

Sign in to comment

Or login with:

OpenID

Albany Herald