FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF News) – The murder trial for former Fort Worth police officer Aaron Dean has been delayed until May 16, 2022 with jury selection beginning May 9th.
Dean’s attorneys argued some of their expert witnesses were not available for the scheduled start of the trial in January 10.
He’s charged in the shooting death of Atatiana Jefferson when he responded to a wellness check about an open door late at night in October 2019.
Body camera video released by the department showed Dean walking through the side of the house and firing his gun through a window as he shouted for Jefferson to show her hands.
Dean was not heard on video announcing that he was a police officer.
Jefferson’s killing gained national attention during a time when police killings of African Americans were under scrutiny and calls for changes were coming from the public and elected officials.
District Court Judge David Hagerman said he’ll consider a change of venue request out of Tarrant County.
Dean’s attorneys claim their client can’t get a fair trial in Dallas/Fort Worth due to media coverage.
Two days after the shooting, Dean resigned from the department. He was subsequently charged with murder and released on a $200,00 bond.
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