Murder Trial for Ex-Marine Accused of Killing Chris Kyle Begins

The capital Murder trial of Eddie Routh who is accused of murdering Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield began with opening statements yesterday. The trial will receive national attention. The case will focus on the Texas Insanity Law and the jury must determine if Routh was insane at the time of the killing.

The Texas Insanity law is an affirmative defense, meaning the defense has the burden of proof. In order for the defense win a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity the defense must prove the defendant was suffering from a severe mental illness at the time of the offense and that he did not know his conduct was wrong.

The trial is expected to last two weeks and jurors will hear from numerous experts and civilian witnesses who will testify about Eddie Rouths’ mental problems over the years and his behaviour before, during and after the crime.