Jury selection to begin in Lassere murder case - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Jury selection to begin in Lassere murder case

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Jeff Lassere stands on the steps of the Autauga Co. Courthouse where he's waiting for jury selection to begin. Jeff Lassere stands on the steps of the Autauga Co. Courthouse where he's waiting for jury selection to begin.
Photo of Patricia Lassere Photo of Patricia Lassere
Mug shot: Clifford Wynn (Source: Autauga Co. Sheriff's Dept.) Mug shot: Clifford Wynn (Source: Autauga Co. Sheriff's Dept.)
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PRATTVILLE, AL (WSFA) -

An Autauga County man is hoping to learn the truth this week about what really happened to his wife. Jeff Lassere stood outside the county courthouse Monday, waiting for jury selection to being in the murder trial of Clifford Wynn.

Wynn is accused of raping and murdering Patricia Lassere in December of 2005. Mrs. Lassere had just left her job at the Walmart in Clanton and was on her way home. She never made it.

Lassere's SUV was later found on Autauga County Road 1, about seven miles from her home. Her body was found nearby. Investigators say the 53-year-old had been strangled.

Wynn was a suspect early on, having been arrested for the crime in 2008 but later released. He was again arrested for Lassere's murder in early 2012, but was already in jail on other, non-related charges.

District Attorney Randall Houston says that once a jury is selected, he expect the trial to last no more than two days. While jury selection is now under way, opening arguments will not begin until December 10. The delay is due to the defense attorney having the flu. 

If convicted, Wynn could face life in prison without the possibility of parole.

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