ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Emotion and interest have both run high concerning the murder trial of Casey Anthony, who's accused of killing her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office expects everything from protesters to performers to gather outside the courthouse on Tuesday, the day of opening statements.
The first 50 people in line on Tuesday, got the ticket they've been waiting for. Two spectators who will be inside the courtroom flew into Orlando from New York.
"It just caught my attention form the get go...intriguing," said Colleen Militeno.
"I want to be here for Caylee. I think someone needs to be here for Caylee," said Jennie Molina.
"I just want to see what's going on, and hear the evidence against her. I want to see the pictures..hear step by step," said Brett Schulman, who was first in line.
Extra Orange County deputies will be outside the courthouse, particularly to monitor the large crowd of protesters expected.
Back in 2008, protesters and supporters of Casey were outside the Anthony home fighting each other. Some had signs, calling her an "angel killer." There were also verbal and physical fights with Casey's parents, George and Cindy Anthony.
"Citizens went to the Anthony house that required intervention of law enforcement, so this trial has elicited a lot of emotion," said Maj. Ron Stucker, of the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
During the trial, deputies expect the same type of crowds.
Two specific zones, both about 300 square feet, have been set up along Orange Avenue for protesters or those who wish to express free speech.
Only 50 people will be allowed inside the courtroom each day. Tickets will be issued, each day, on first-come, first-serve basis. But those who are allowed inside Judge Belvin Perrys' courtroom, can't wear clothes, pins or buttons with words or pictures related to the trial.
Perry has already shown he won't put up with disruptions in the courtroom. He sentenced a Pinellas County woman to 2 days in jail last week for screaming out in court that Casey killed somebody. Elizabeth Rogers was found guilty of contempt of court.
WFTV
