In a significant development in a long-standing Orlando murder case, Demorris Hunter, convicted of the 2002 murder of Theresa Green, took the stand in court for the first time. Hunter’s testimony comes as his defense team works to prevent the imposition of the death penalty, which a jury has already recommended.
Hunter’s Testimony
During the court proceedings, Hunter maintained his innocence, arguing that the investigation into Green’s murder was not conducted thoroughly. “Through this whole thing, I have remained silent,” Hunter stated. “I haven’t given anyone any problems. This case was not investigated thoroughly as it should have been.”
Green, who worked as a secretary at Florida Hospital, now known as AdventHealth, was last seen with Hunter the night she disappeared. Prosecutors allege that Hunter strangled Green and left her body in the trunk of her car, which was found in a Sanford drug store parking lot.
Criminal History and Legal Challenges
Hunter’s extensive criminal history has been a focal point in the case. He was previously convicted in California for a 1985 incident involving the killing of a man and injuring two others. After serving approximately 12 years, he was released but later convicted of another murder in California, receiving a 110-year sentence.
In his testimony, Hunter acknowledged the impact of his past on the current case but insisted that the evidence suggests alternative scenarios. “My past has brought me here,” he said. “I am only accused, and evidence shows there was something else going on.”
Hunter also raised concerns about the legal process that brought him to Florida, alleging that fraudulent documents were used. “Anytime you use fraudulent documents to procure someone in a court of law, something has went wrong, very wrong,” he told the court.
Next Steps
The judge has instructed both the prosecution and defense to submit sentencing memorandums by July, with Hunter’s sentencing hearing scheduled for August 4. The final decision on whether Hunter will face the death penalty rests with the judge.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
