The ongoing trial concerning the decades-old murder of Tara Baker, a former University of Georgia law student, continues to intensify as Edrick Faust faces charges for her death. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Faust is accused of malice murder among other charges. Baker’s case, which had gone cold for years, resurfaced with new DNA evidence police say link Faust to the crime scene.
Testimony yesterday brought an Athens-Clarke County Police detective to the stand, who recounted his original response to Baker’s murder. He detailed the procedure of establishing a timeline on the day of Baker’s death and discussing the alibi of Baker's then-boyfriend. The defense, trying to divert suspicion, has pointed to Chris Melton, Baker's boyfriend at a time, as another potential suspect. In a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, a prolonged debate occurred over the admissibility of the alibi information which the judge ultimately allowed given Melton's testimony for the prosecution on Monday.
Melton, who stood as a witness for the prosecution, faced questions about his composure following the murder. According to Atlanta News First, when questioned why he wasn’t crying after the murder, Melton explained he was "trying to keep it together." The defense is attempting to cast doubts about the credibility and handling of the evidence by suggesting the police neglected a thorough investigation into Baker’s boyfriend at the time.
Last week's testimonies focused on the DNA evidence, particularly regarding hair follicles. The prosecution claims that recent advances in DNA testing conclusively link Faust to the murder that occurred in Baker's Athens apartment. The defense, on the other hand, has countered by stating there were significant chain-of-custody issues. Faust's defense lawyer, Ahmad Crews, took issue on cross-examination with the detective's ability to recall minor details from 2001, a line of questioning the judge ultimately deemed too argumentative.
