San Diego
After 3 1/2 months of jury selection, a jury and six alternates have finally been seated to hear the murder case of David Lucas, who is charged in six slayings.
The 12 jurors were sworn in Thursday to hear the trial, which is expected to last until June. The six alternates were sworn in Tuesday. Opening statements will be made Jan. 3, San Diego Superior Court Judge Laura Hammes ruled.
Lucas, 33, of Spring Valley, is accused of murder in the killings of four East County residents from 1981 to 1984, and two Normal Heights people in 1979. All had their throats slashed.
He could face the death penalty if convicted, which is why jury selection took so long. Potential jurors were quizzed individually over their feelings about capital punishment.
Deputy Dist. Atty. George Clarke and one of Lucas’ four attorneys said they are satisfied with the makeup of the jury.
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