BRUNSWICK, Ga. -- The trial of a popular St. Marys doctor that has divided Camden County for nearly more than a year finally began on Monday.

Dr. Noel Chua, 45, was arrested in September 2006 on charges connected to the overdose death of his 20-year-old roommate, Jamie Carter III.

Prosecutors told the jury that prescriptions he wrote for Carter caused his death. Carter was found slumped over a sink in Chua's home in December 2005.

Chua was charged with felony murder and 17 violations of Georgia's control substance act.

Friends said the doctor's patient had become his friend and roommate.

One criminal investigators called to the stand Monday testified she found nine prescription bottles in a locked drawer in Chua’s home, including methadone -- one of the several drugs found in Carter's body during an autopsy.

Those who knew Carter said he was not the kind of person to take drug unless they were given to him by a doctor.

While the jurors were picked last week in Camden County, the trial is being held in Brunswick to limit the involvement of Camden County Sheriff Bill Smith, a longtime friend of Chua.

Chua's supporters -- including Smith -- had petitioned the court, circulated petitions and held demonstrations asking that Chua be allowed to post bond. Superior Court Judge Amanda Williams has denied bond, calling Chua a flight risk.

Dozens of Chua's supporters were in the courtroom Monday, along with Carter's parents and several friends.

Prosecutor said their case will be completed with a few days. Court observers expect the trial to last all week.

The jury -- 12 jurors and three alternates -- is being sequestered during the proceedings.

The Georgia Board of Medicine has revoked Chua's medical license. His office in St. Marys has remained closed since his arrest.