Kimberly Kessler’s attorneys file motion for new trial
Frank Powers, Assignment manager
NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. – Lawyers for Kimberly Kessler, the woman found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of her Nassau County salon co-worker, has filed a motion for a new trial.
A jury came back with the guilty verdict in the death of Joleen Cummings on Dec. 9. The body of Cummings, who disappeared in 2018, has never been found.
In the motion, the defense says Judge James Daniel made 12 errors in the conduct of the trial, including:
Denying repeated defense requests for a new competency hearing for Kessler, who rejected every chance to participate in the trial
Denying multiple defense motions to suppress evidence
Allowing prosecution testimony the defense says was hearsay
Not allowing the defense to tell the jury methamphetamine was found in Cummings’ purse during jury instructions
