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Last updated on Friday, November 6, 2015
(NASHVILLE) - Brown Circuit Judge Judith Stewart ruled that Daniel Messel, who is accused of killing Indiana University student 22-year-old Hannah Wilson, can seek more public funds for experts and investigators during hearings that will be closed to the prosecution and the public.
Defense attorney Dorie Maryan argued Thursday that 49-year-old Daniel Messel's right to a fair trial and to remain silent would be compromised if he is forced to publicly reveal details justifying his need to hire experts and what those experts find.
But Brown County Prosecutor Ted Adams says that information is relevant and should be part of discovery - the legal exchange of evidence expected to be presented at trial which includes the identity and qualifications of all experts.
Judge Stewart was hesitant to close the hearings and seal the public record saying the justice system is designed to be open and have all parties and the public aware of proceedings.
But she granted Maryan's motion, saying she would not reveal details about any decisions to grant funds, but would release the amount allotted.
At that time Adams and chief deputy prosecutor, Jim Roberts, the public and press were asked to leave the courtroom.
Messel, a printing shop worker from Bloomington, is facing a charge of murder. He was arrested after police found his cell phone near Wilson's body.
Wilson's body was discovered a day after she was reported missing. On April 24 a motorist discovered a body face-down in a vacant lot at State Road 45 and Plum Creek Road in Brown County.
An autopsy determined Wilson had died from blunt force injuries to the back of her head.
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