Jury selection is underway for the second day in the murder trial of Duane Davis. Davis is the only individual charged in the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur near the Las Vegas Strip.
Judge Carli Kierny is overseeing the proceedings in a Clark County courtroom. The trial is expected to span four to five weeks. Before the selection began, Davis waived his right to jury sentencing, which means the judge will determine the penalty if a guilty verdict is returned.
On Monday, 75 potential jurors were summoned. More than 20 were excused immediately. The court started individual questioning on Monday afternoon and continued that process throughout Tuesday. Several prospective jurors were dismissed due to financial hardships, language barriers, or concerns regarding their ability to remain impartial.
The prosecution has charged the 63-year-old Davis with murder, along with enhancements for use of a deadly weapon and gang affiliation. Prosecutors allege that Davis provided the firearm used in the shooting as retaliation for a fight involving his nephew. Davis has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team has previously argued that his statements about the incident were exaggerated claims intended to generate profit from book and media projects.
Opening statements in the trial are scheduled to begin on Monday, August 17. The jury selection phase is projected to conclude by the end of this week.