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Here are five things to know about the case per Times-Union news partner First Coast News:
1. What is the case about?
Tillis is charged with murder, kidnapping, human trafficking and abuse of a dead human body in the death of Joni Gunter, believed to be about 30 when she died. In February 2016, Gunter’s dismembered remains were found buried in three holes in the backyard of Tillis’ Southside home at 3551 E. Bowden Circle.
According to prosecutors, Gunter died of blunt force trauma to the head sometime between Feb. 3, 2014, and May 28, 2015 (the day Tillis was arrested on unrelated charges). Gunter was identified when DNA samples taken from her remains matched DNA on file with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Juror dismissed in Russell Tillis murder trial after writing letter to judge
12 jurors, 3 alternates were seated Tuesday
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Russell Tillis listens during jury selection Tuesday. (Pool/WJXT)
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – One of the first 10 jurors selected to serve in the murder trial of Russell Tillis was excused Tuesday after writing a letter to the judge.
The contents of the letter were not immediately clear, but the judge and Tillis’ attorney noted the juror was very upset.
The juror’s surprise dismissal came on the second day of jury selection for the trial of Tillis, who is charged in the kidnapping, first-degree murder and dismemberment of Joni Gunter. Police said the woman’s remains were unearthed in the backyard of Tillis’ Southside home in 2016 while Tillis was in jail on unrelated charges.