lawyer

Woman Accused in Texting Suicide Case Waives Right to Jury Trial

A Massachusetts woman accused of sending her boyfriend dozens of text messages encouraging him to kill himself has waived her right to a jury trial.

Michelle Carter is charged with manslaughter in the 2014 death of Conrad Roy III. The 18-year-old was found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning in his pickup truck in Fairhaven. 

Prosecutors released transcripts of text messages the then-17-year-old Carter sent to Roy. In one of the texts, she allegedly wrote: "The time is right and you're ready, you just need to do it!"

Carter's lawyer has argued that the texts are protected free speech. He's also said that Roy was depressed and had previously tried to take his own life. 

Jury selection was scheduled to begin Monday in Taunton Juvenile Court; however, now the judge will hear the case.

Opening statements are set for Tuesday morning.

SUICIDE PREVENTION HELP: The National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Text HOME to 741741 for a Crisis Text Line.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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