LOVELAND, Colo.—Jury selection is under way in the case of a Loveland-area man accused of fatally bludgeoning a process server who had just given him divorce papers and then choking his children into unconsciousness.
Forty-six-year-old James Whitler is charged with first-degree murder in the May 28 death of 57-year-old Stephen Allen. He also faces two counts of attempted first-degree murder.
Authorities say Allen had taken divorce papers and a restraining order to Whitler’s home west of Loveland when Whitler attacked him with a baseball bat. Whitler’s wife, Lisa Whitler, called 9-1-1, and when deputies arrived, they allegedly saw James Whitler choking the children.
Attorneys in the case say jury selection may wrap up Wednesday afternoon. Opening statements will be made after the jury is seated and given instructions.
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Information from: Loveland Daily Reporter-Herald,
