Updated | David Zerafa found guilty of murdering Gozitan lawyer

The nine jurors on the trial by jury of David Zerafa are expected to deliver their verdict later this morning.

At 9 am this morning the jurors were closed inside a courtroom to draw their verdict.

Zerafa is charged with the willful homicide of Gozitan lawyer Michael Grech in Marsalforn Gozo, in 2004. He is also charged with the illegal arrest of the lawyer, and with carrying and using an unlicensed firearm in a public place.

The trial by jury kicked off on 10 June with the prosecution presenting its evidence and witnesses. An onsite inquiry was held on Thursday in Gozo. Jurors were taken to the scene of the crime in St Mary Street, Marsalforn. They also went to Ramla l-Hamra were the accused allegedly changed his blood stained clothes. 

Yesterday, the brothers of the accused were asked to take the witness stand again after the prosecution filed an application claiming they lied under oath.

After listening again to the evidence of Emanuel and Geoffrey Zerafa, Justice Lawrence Quintano delivered his closing speech.

Phillip Farrugia Galea and Maurizio Cordina are prosecuting. Dr Malcom Mifsud is appearing for the defence.

Arthur Azzopardi and Kathleen Grima appear a parte civile.

The jury was presided by Justice Quintano.

Updated: Zerafa found guilty

The accused, David Zerafa, has been found guilty by eight of nine members of the jury.

More information to follow.