NORWICH – Accused murderer George Ford Jr. waived his right to a jury trial and has instead elected to place his fate in the hands of the judge.

Defense attorney Randel Scharf of Cooperstown told the court Thursday evening, “he’s absolutely certain he wishes to waive his right to a jury trial.”

Scharf said the decision came after hours of discussion and months of consideration.

Ford, 43, originally of Piscataway, N.J., was arrested July 8, 2007 after he arrived at Chenango Memorial Hospital with the body of his 12-year-old baby-sitter, Shyanne A. Somers of South Otselic.

Ford claimed he accidentally ran over the girl five hours earlier with his 2004 Ford pick-up as he attempted to turn his truck around.

In August of that year, police charged Ford with second degree murder after they discovered a GPS tracking system in the bed of his truck they said contradicted the story he gave investigators. The device was placed there unknown to Ford by his wife, who said she was concerned he was having an affair.

At the hearing yesterday, Broome County Court Judge Joseph F. Cawley reviewed Ford’s rights to a jury trial in open court and asked him directly to affirm the request made by his lawyer.

“Do you understand sir that I essentially become the judge, not just of the law, but the facts of the case? I will be the jury,” he said.

Cawley approved the move and had Ford sign documents confirming his position.

First Assistant District Attorney Stephen M. Dunshee, who represented the DA’s Office in court yesterday, said he was “surprised” by the defense’s move, but understood their desire to avoid a jury.

“Due to the horrific nature of the crime, Mr. Ford has decided to avoid a jury,” he said.