A jury has been sworn in for the trial of a man accused of murdering Chloe Mitchell in Co Antrim. Brandon John Rainey, 30, formerly of James Street in Ballymena, faces charges of murdering the 21-year-old and attempting to prevent the burial of her body.
Ms Mitchell was found dead in Ballymena days after she went missing in June 2023. Rainey pleaded not guilty to the charges at a hearing in 2024.
Trial Preparations at Belfast Crown Court
A large number of Ms Mitchell's family and friends attended Belfast Crown Court on Tuesday as final preparations were made for the trial. A jury of five men and seven women was sworn in.
Mr Justice Fowler said the trial is likely to last between four and five weeks. He noted there had been some publicity around the case and told the jurors they must be as objective as possible.
Judge's Instructions to Jurors
The judge said the jurors must not do their own research, look at any social media or commentary, discuss the case with their family and friends, or come with any preconceived ideas.
The trial will get under way on Wednesday.
