'It's difficult to asses the length of any trial' Judge Lynch told the potential jurors, he then went on to say how this trial could take 4 to 6 weeks and always could be longer. Lynch also explained to jurors the difference of the two charges, saying the manslaughter charge in the second degree has the element of reckless conduct and the homicide charge is for causing a death of an individual with the element of criminal negligence. Judge Peter Lynch spoke to jurors about the incident, and read the 40 count indictment against Hussain, including 20 counts each of criminally negligent homicide and second-degree manslaughter-one count for each victim. No cameras or audio recordings were allowed inside the courtroom, although a viewing area was available to watch and listen into the proceedings for those not directly in the questioning.

The process finally beginning on May 1st, with the first panel of under 100 people present in the Schoharie County Courthouse.Īlso present, the accused, Nauman Hussain, his attorney Lee Kindlon, Schoharie District Attorney Susan Mallery, and Special prosecutor Fred Rench.Īt around 10:50 that morning, following juror orientation, the questioning process began. He originally pleaded guilty, expecting to be sentenced to only probation, but the judge rejected that agreement and the case went back to trial.ġ,500 people have been called to become a potential juror for the trial that is now years in the making. Hussain's legal team argues Hussain did his due diligence before the crash and that it was a repair shop and the state that were truly at fault.

The National Transportation Safety Board investigation later found catastrophic brake failure was responsible for the crash. Nauman Hussain was the operator of 'Prestige Limo Company' prosecutors say put the limo on the road that day and is accused of failing to maintain the vehicle. MORE: Schoharie limo crash criminal trial set to begin Monday with jury selection

Three Little Words by Susan Mallery