The trial for the former Grover Beach police officer charged in connection with a deadly dog attack in December 2016 will begin with opening statements Tuesday after the prosecution and defense disputed potential evidence in court on Monday.
A jury will decide on the two felony counts of failing to maintain control of a deadly or dangerous animal and a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter against Alex Geiger.
The attack killed David Fear, 64, and seriously injured Betty Long, who was 85 at the time.
According to prosecuting documents, Geiger’s dog reportedly got out of a gap in the backyard fence of the home he was renting in Grover Beach. Fear and Long were attacked.
On Monday, both sides argued for the inclusion and exclusion of certain evidence, including several photographs showing the injuries Fear suffered in the attack and the enclosures of the animals from different periods of time, as well as an interview of Long after the attack.
Judge Jacquelyn Duffy reserved ruling on several of those requests but excluded a number of items and photos from being used during testimony.
Opening statements will begin at 9 a.m. and Tuesday’s schedule will include testimony.
