STOCKTON (CA)
Lodi News-Sentinel
Posted: Friday, April 6, 2012
By Ross Farrow/News-Sentinel Staff Writer
The jury in the Michael Kelly clergy abuse trial received conflicting messages as attorneys gave their closing arguments in a case that has lasted more than a month.
Attorney John Manly, representing a 37-year-old man accusing Kelly of sexual assault, painted the Lockeford priest as a pedophile and blatant liar who has an unsavory interest in children.
Attorney Jim Goodman, representing the Stockton Diocese, and Tom Beatty, representing Kelly, told the jury that the plaintiff has not borne the burden of proof that Kelly sexually assaulted the plaintiff or anyone else.
Closing arguments, which lasted all day Thursday, will continue today. The case is likely to go to the jury this afternoon and continue on Monday. Jurors will meet until a verdict is reached.
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