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Testimony is set to begin today in the murder trial of Gionni Sellers in Newburgh. Sellers is accused of causing the 2022 death of three-year-old Xavier Johnson. Prosecutors allege that while babysitting at the child's mother's apartment in Wallkill, Sellers abused Xavier over several days. The autopsy revealed that the toddler suffered broken ribs and blunt force trauma to his head and body.
The case has faced delays due to conflicts involving Sellers' attorney, but jury selection has concluded, and the trial is moving forward. During the selection process, attorneys debated the admissibility of certain evidence, including photos and videos of the child's injuries. Judge Craig Brown decided that some evidence could be presented while excluding others.
Prosecutors argue that Sellers became angry after the child's mother friended an ex-boyfriend on social media, which allegedly led to the abuse. They also pointed out that Xavier's bruises were initially misdiagnosed by his pediatrician as a rash. Sellers, who has pleaded not guilty, faces charges of murder with depraved indifference and manslaughter. If convicted, he could face decades in prison.
Opening statements are expected tomorrow, and the trial is anticipated to continue through the end of the month.