Closing Arguments in Trial of Man Accused of Brutal Beating Death of Social Worker

Trial of Haseem Jenkins

• 🎯 The trial of Haseem Jenkins, accused of killing social worker Maria Cotto, has reached its closing arguments.
• 💔 Jenkins is accused of brutally kicking and punching Cotto, causing catastrophic head injuries that led to her death five weeks later.

Defense Arguments

• ❓ The defense attorney argued that Jenkins was high on PCP, which he claims was slipped to him, and therefore lacked the intent to commit murder.
• 🧠 Jenkins reportedly stated, "I blacked out. I blacked out," suggesting he had no ability to form intent.

Prosecution Arguments

• ⚖️ The prosecutor countered that being high is not an excuse for criminal actions and that the evidence shows Jenkins intentionally assaulted Cotto.
• ⚠️ A possible motive suggested was Jenkins' fear of eviction from his Section 8 apartment, triggered by Cotto's mistaken knock on his door.

Jury Deliberations

• 🏛️ The judge will charge the jury on Thursday morning, after which deliberations will begin.
• ⚖️ The primary charge is intentional murder, but the defense is hoping for a lesser verdict, such as manslaughter.