Small turnout for tickets to day one of Zimmerman trial

SANFORD, Fla. — A small line of people who wanted a seat inside the courtroom during day one of the George Zimmerman trial formed Friday in Sanford.

Officials are expecting large crowds at the courthouse when the trial gets underway, but the line for tickets to the courtroom was shorter than some expected. Jury selection begins Monday.

"I want to be in the courtroom in all the action going on," said De'kerria Martin, one of those in line.

"I live one minute away from the courthouse. It'd be cool if I won and could see it," said Sahar Karimi, who lined up in hopes of getting a ticket.

Seminole County will be drawing just 24 names daily to sit in on the proceedings.

"I'm very much into following news. I follow news so much, there's so much going on with this, it just leads me to be a little more interested in being a part of it," said Sanford resident Tim McLaughlin.

Those who are selected will have rules to follow when they do get to court. They can't wear anything that shows support for either side and they must be in business attire.

"It's not certain, but hopefully I'll get a ticket so I can be in there, where everything is going on, so I don't have to watch it on TV. I can be where it's at," said Martin.

Although Friday's this line moved quickly, officials expect more people to compete for seats as opening statements begin.

"This trial will be touching on a lot of different issues, which relates to not only the community of Sanford, but also the many other communities across the nation," said Sanford resident H. Alexander Duncan.

Seminole County will draw names for seats each day during the trial. Those wishing to be in the drawing for a seat must drop off a ballot at the Seminole County Supervisor of Elections office.

More Information:  

• Information on drawing for seats in Zimmerman trial
• Public drawing for seats in State vs. Zimmerman - Frequently asked questions

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