SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – The man suspected of carrying out a deadly shooting rampage in Half Moon Bay last month is back in court on Friday. One of the issues up for discussion is how much access the media should be granted as the trial continues.
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The defense is concerned that the press coverage, in this case, will make it difficult to conduct a fair and impartial trial for Chunli Zhao, 66.
Defense attorneys for the trial have characterized the coverage of this trial as aggressive. They cited one instance in particular where one reporter conducted an in-jail interview with Zhao as a point of concern.
The defense has also been critical of San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe has been saying too much about the case to the press by confirming facts about the investigation prematurely.
Wagstaffe’s office has maintained that all comments made so far were appropriate.
For now, the court has ruled that a limited number of cameras will still be allowed to remain in court, though that could change as proceedings continue.
In the meantime, a gag order has been placed on both the prosecution and the defense teams.
This bars them from discussing facts about court proceedings with the media.
The full extent of the gag order will be hashed out at another hearing later in the afternoon Friday.
During his Court appearance for the hearing Friday, Zhao broke down in tears forcing a brief recess. His arraignment is set for next Thursday.
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