The Trial For The Attempted Kidnapping Of A US Governor Has Begun

In the city of Grand Rapids, jury selection for the federal trial of four men accused of plotting to abduct Michigan's Democratic governor has begun.

Prosecutors say the men targeted Gretchen Whitmer because of Covid rules she imposed early in the pandemic.

The government's case is insufficient, according to the accused's lawyers, who have suggested an entrapment defense.

The study, which will be keenly followed, is planned to run roughly six weeks.

The men planned to blow up a bridge near the governor's vacation house, abduct her, and put her on a "treason trial," according to the FBI, which says it foiled the plot 17 months ago. In the end, 14 suspected plotters were apprehended.

Six members of the gang were arrested and charged in federal court. The other eight are facing separate charges from the state.

Two of the individuals facing federal charges have already pled guilty, and the remaining four are anticipated to testify against them during the trial. The undercover FBI agents who infiltrated the group are also set to testify, and a judge has ordered them to expose their true identities against prosecutors' objections.

On Thursday, Chief US District Judge Robert Jonker ruled that "making it crystal clear to the jury and the public that nothing is undercover and everything is out in the open inside the courtroom will best ensure fairness during trial and eventual acceptance and respect for whatever the jury ultimately decides."

Adam Fox, 38, Daniel Harris, 24, and Brandon Caserta, 33, are Michigan residents, while Barry Croft, 46, is a Delaware resident.

All four are charged with abduction conspiracy, which carries a possible jail sentence of life. Mr. Croft and Mr. Harris are also accused of plotting the use of a weapon of mass devastation.

Prosecutors say they'll show the guys took detailed steps to carry out their plot, including visiting the governor's residence, testing explosives, and combat training against Gov. Whitmer's security force.