Judge removes juror from Aaron Hernandez trial

FALL RIVER, Mass. (AP) — The judge overseeing the murder trial of former New England Patriots player Aaron Hernandez removed a juror today, saying there was evidence she had spoken about the case in previous years and had an early interest in being seated on the panel.

Judge Susan Garsh of Bristol County Superior Court dismissed the juror after questioning her individually and closing the courtroom to hear evidence on the matter.

After a closed-door hearing that lasted more than 90 minutes, Judge Garsh said there was credible evidence the juror specifically discussed an opinion about the case, including that it would be hard to convict Hernandez without the murder weapon. She said the juror also discussed several items of evidence the court has ruled are inadmissible in this case.

"Over the last few years, the juror has expressed an interest in serving on this particular jury," Judge Garsh said. "There is credible evidence that the juror has attended more Patriots games than were disclosed on the questionnaire."

"Discharge of the juror is indeed in the best interest of justice," Judge Garsh said.