This is his last day of freedom for nearly 10 years. Courtroom is designed to accommodate press, news media, reporters and radio broadcasting. Continuance is denied. First day of trial. Jury visits Sheppard home, accompanied by a reporter and massive media coverage.
Trial transcript is printed regularly.
Police, prosecutors, witnesses, judge and juror families give interviews and appear on camera. Judge fails to question jury about whether members heard it. 1954 National broadcaster falsely reports that woman under arrest was Dr. Sheppard's mistress and had an illegitimate child by him. Two jurors heard the broadcast but judge takes no action. December 17-21 Jury deliberates and is sequestered for the first time.