NORWICH – Seven juror spots were filled Tuesday during jury selection for the trial of Ganesh R. Ramsaran.

Jury selection is expected to conclude Wednesday morning with opening statements to take place sometime in the afternoon. Right now, five males and two females have been selected.

Both the prosecution and the defense were able to question potential jurors.

“I’m sure you’ve all seen cool stuff on CSI,” said McBride. “Don’t hold me to those high TV standards. I have no magic machine. It’s not a John Grisham novel.”

Chenango County Court Judge Frank B. Revoir Jr. instructed the potential jurors that the defendant has the right to a fair trial regardless of what they may have seen, heard, or read. “If you tell me that you cannot put certain matters aside and render a fair verdict, you will be excused,” said Revoir.

“I heard so many things on TV, I don’t think I could give a fair verdict,” said one potential jurror.

“I’ve heard things, I’ve seen things on the news, I have read things. I have my opinion,” said another.

Both were excused, along with dozens more.

After the witness list was read, potential jurors were asked if they knew any of the individuals. Many shared their relationships with potential witnesses, including various investigators, authorities, a Norwich Police Officer, and numerous other individuals. Corporations, including Facebook, Apple, Verizon, and Frontier were also named to the witness list. Potential jurors notified the court of their Facebook activity, and if they happened to be a Frontier customer.

“I have followed the case on Facebook,” said one woman. “And I work with someone who was good friends with the victim.” She was excused.

When the jury pool was reduced, Revoir explained that the duty of the jury is to ensure a fair trial. He continued by saying the jurors must listen to the law as the court gives it.

“A grand jury indictment must not be taken as evidence of guilt,” said Revoir. “The defendant may – but is not required to – present evidence, witnesses, testify, or explain his actions in any way.”

Revoir continued by telling the jury pool that the defendant is presumed innocent, and he is “not required to prove that he is not guilty.” He told the men and women that is the prosecution’s job. “The burden never shifts from the prosecution to the defendant.”

Those selected to serve on the jury are permitted to go home each evening but the seven (thus far) have been instructed to not watch TV, read newspapers, or discuss the case.

“Divorce, money, deception … things like that,” is what Chenango County District Attorney Joseph McBride said to 14 of the potential jurors when it was his turn to question them. “There will be graphic evidence. There will be sexual texting before and after an alleged homicide.” He described it as unpleasant.