HOUSTON – Opening statements in Antonio “AJ” Armstrong Jr.’s third murder trial have been delayed for the second time.
On Monday morning, Judge Kelli Johnson, who continues to cite reasons “outside the court’s control,” delayed Armstrong Jr.’s trial to July 31.
This comes one week after the trial was originally delayed on Monday, June 5. On that day, Judge Johnson also cited reasons “outside the court’s control.” stating that a continual ongoing issue needs to be addressed.
There has not been much comment on what the issue may be, but the judge stressed not to speculate on the reason for the delay.
Leaving the courtroom, KPRC 2 reporter Rilwan Balogun spoke exclusively to Armstrong Jr.’s great uncle, Harvey, the brother of Armstrong Sr., who expressed his frustration with the continued setbacks.
“Frustrated. It’s so much more I could say, but my one word to describe how I’m feeling is frustrated. Flying in from Atlanta to be here last Monday, did the same thing last night, and now we have another delay. Another postponement. We’ve been waiting seven years. Enough is enough.” Harvey said.
He said he was ready for the trial to begin so he could see the evidence that was being presented against his nephew, who he believes is innocent.
“Of course I’m biased, I’m a family member. But even as a community, as a person in the city, as a citizen, you haven’t given me enough evidence to say that he did it. So, no. I know he didn’t do it, even two other juries felt the same way. Both of them have said, ‘Hey, you didn’t do it.’ So, why are we still here? That’s the question, ‘Houston why are we still here seven years later,” Harvey said.
He also touched on how his nephew is feeling during this time, saying he’s optimistic, upbeat and positive.
“He smiles more than me,” Harvey said.
So, what happens next?
The trial, which is supposed to last about three to four weeks, has now been set back for an additional seven weeks. Many are now wondering how this could affect the jury, which was a rigorous process that lasted nearly a month.
Attorney Letitia Quinones-Hollins said she believes Judge Johnson is going to issue a firm and steadfast order that jurors do not look up or research anything pertaining to the case.
“All she can do is hope that they follow the rules and the orders of the court,” Quinones-Hollins said.
Harvey said his family and community only want justice from Amrstrong Jr.
SEE MORE:
The Trial of AJ Armstrong Timeline
Last-minute evidence and motions allowed in Antonio Armstrong Jr.’s 3rd murder trial
Meet the defense attorneys in the Antonio Armstrong Jr. trial
AJ Armstrong trial: What we know about teen accused of killing parents
KPRC 2 Investigates launches ‘The Bench’ ahead of 3rd murder trial for AJ Armstrong