Defense releases photos, texts of Trayvon Martin
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George Zimmerman's defense attorneys on Thursday released photos and text messages from 17-year-old Trayvon Martin's cellphone ahead of a hearing that will determine whether they can be used at Zimmerman's murder trial.
Zimmerman is charged with fatally shooting Martin last year during a confrontation at a gated community in Sanford. He is pleading not guilty, claiming self-defense. His trial starts next month.
The photos show Martin blowing smoke and extending his middle finger to the camera. The photos also show a gun and what appears to be a potted marijuana plant.
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In the text messages, Martin tells a friend that his mother has told him he needs to move out of her house and move in with his father since he was caught skipping school.
Prosecutors have filed a motion asking Circuit Judge Debra Nelson to prevent the photos, texts and other personal information from being used at the second-degree murder trial. The hearing is set for next Tuesday.
Zimmerman's defense attorney, Mark O'Mara told The Associated Press last week that the materials could be relevant if prosecutors put a spotlight on Martin and his character.
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"If the state puts at issue Trayvon, who he was. If the state makes that an issue, we get to respond to that," O'Mara said.