When a buzzer sounded in court Friday, it was a signal from the jury. Sent to the jury room to elect a fore-person, they did so in minutes. We pray yes. The jury of nine African-Americans, two whites and one Hispanic has been sequestered together since January. It's first full day of deliberations Monday will be the first time the people are able to openly talk about the issues.
Experts say a jury can structure deliberations any way it wants.
The strong emotions of the trial were stressed in closing arguments. So there's a chance the deliberations will be heated. To keep a lid on tensions outside the courthouse, church leaders are making special appeals for calm. Most surveys have shown the belief in Simpson's guilt or innocence is divided along racial lines. A CNN-USA Today Gallup poll found 40 percent of those questioned believe racial issues will be considered by the jury.