But as opening statements and testimony get underway, will Jenkins’ words help or hurt her fiancé if she takes the stand? Jenkins is on the prosecution’s witness list.
“Normally, a fiancée is not going to testify adversely against her true love,” said CNN legal analyst Paul Callan, a former New York City homicide prosecutor. But there is no privilege in Massachusetts allowing engaged couples to avoid testifying against one another.
Hernandez, the ex-New England Patriot tight end who once had a $40 million contract, has pleaded not guilty to orchestrating the death of Odin Lloyd. He has also pleaded not guilty to other weapons charges.
His co-defendants, Ernest Wallace and Carlos Ortiz, have also pleaded not guilty and will be tried separately.
What could be at stake for Jenkins?
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On the other hand, if Jenkins decides to testify without immunity, takes the Fifth Amendment against self-incrimination and gives no substantive testimony, Callan said the defense may argue ahead of time that her testimony would be prejudicial to Hernandez and not be allowed.
While some jurors may think prosecutors should not “force” a loved one to testify, Callan said it may be unavoidable if prosecutors are convinced it’s necessary to help prove their case.
“This is not just harassing a loved one, this is putting somebody on the witness stand who has information for the jury,” Callan added.
Jenkins’ lawyer has declined comment.
Her client may be in a tough spot either way, if she is in a struggle over family loyalty versus the chance of losing her freedom.
