(Cleveland) - Opening arguments and testimony began today for Christopher Whitaker, who is on trial for the kidnapping and murder of Alianna DeFreeze last year.
Among the first to testify was a Cleveland Police detective, who said they reviewed RTA video, and saw an older black male, follow 14 year old Alianna DeFreeze as she left a bus at East 93rd and Kinsman Avenue on her way to school.
The video was played in court, and the man that followed Alianna was wearing all white, and spoke to her in a crosswalk.
Alianna's body was found in an abandoned home on Fuller Avenue. Investigators claim DNA evidence linked the 44 year old Whitaker to crime, and it appears he's not disputing the charges, but may fight a possible death sentence.
According to prosecutors, Whitaker killed the 14 year old by using an electric drill, putty knife, box cutter, and screw driver.
The trial is a very difficult one for Alianna's parents, Damon and Watonya DeFreeze who are thanking the public for their support. They are hoping justice will be done, but admit it might not help them heal from their tremendous loss.
(Photos by Ken Robinson/WTAM)
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