MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The suspects accused of murdering Memphis basketball player Lorenzen Wright have learned when their case will head before a jury.
Judge Lee Coffee set the trial for Sherra Wright and Billy Turner for September 16, 2019.
During the court proceedings, the state also said they intend to try Turner on a separate convicted felon in possession of a firearm charge prior to the murder charge.
Lorenzen Wright’s mother, Deborah Marion, says the trial date is even sooner than expected.
“They actually did me a favor. I am thinking December, about the time she was arrested. I am thinking they’re going to wait until December. So September is great for me,” she said.
Attorneys say there is much to review, so September is not a long time.
“Keep in mind there was a 7 year head start on the part of the state, so we are still preparing, still investigating, still interviewing witnesses, etc.,” said Turner’s attorney John Keith Perry.
“The investigation is never done. As information comes in, it is also our job to keep on giving it,” said Prosecutor Paul Hagerman.
Sherra’s attorney, Juni Ganguli, says she is ready to get the trial started.
“She is relieved. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and she just wants this to be over with.”
Sherra and Lorenzen’s daughter Loren smiled at her mom in court but whisked past television cameras as she left the courtroom.
Lorenzen’s mother says she wants her granddaughter to see the case play out. Loren is the second of Lorenzen and Sherra’s children to show up to support their mom.
Lorenzen Wright Jr. was in court a few months ago.
“I’m glad she is here so she can see and hear what her momma wants to tell her, so she can follow the footprints and see what she finds out herself. I want her to know,” said Marion.
All parties have until January 24, 2018 to file motions.