Trial Date Set And Video Permitted In Harris Trial

A new judge has set a new trial date for James Harris. The 28-year-old Anoka Minnesota man was re-arraigned on charges of vehicular homicide, hit and run and drunk driving by Judge Jon Erickson, who is now hearing the case, after Harris’ lawyers requested Judge Tim Steele be replaced. Harris maintained his earlier not guilty pleas. A preliminary trial date of March 26th was set. Lawyers have said the trial including jury selection should last a week. A tentative motions hearing date of January 13th was set as well but it is likely to change as Harris’ lawyer Jeff Burns has a previous obligation that day. A request by Performance Radio of Huron to allow expanded electronic media coverage was also taken up. Both Kingsbury County States Attorney Gregg Gass and Burns said they would have no problems video, audio and still photographs being taken during the trial portion of the case. Burns did object to the media being allowed to record or broadcast any pre-trial hearings because he believes pre-trial publicity generated from electronic coverage of those proceeding could hinder Harris’ ability to receive a fair trial. If the Harris case goes to trial it would mark the third time video would be allowed in a trial court proceeding and the first time a trial itself from opening statements to closing arguments would be recorded.