Jacksonville Man Faces Charges in Gruesome Murder of Wife as Trial Begins

Jacksonville Man on Trial for Murdering Wife: Shocking Allegations Unfold

Jacksonville, Fla. – The trial of Jerry Burns, a man accused of conspiring with his mistress to murder his wife, began with gripping opening statements on Wednesday. The case has drawn intense attention due to its violent nature and the disturbing details surrounding the events leading up to the crime.

Burns is charged with first-degree murder in connection to the brutal death of his wife, Velvet Burns, who was stabbed 39 times while asleep in their home on the city’s Westside. The incident took place on May 9, 2019, and prosecutors describe it as a “heinous” act.

Key Players Involved

According to Prosecutor Alan Mizrahi, Jerry Burns is considered the “mastermind” behind the gruesome murder. He allegedly hired Amanda Love, his mistress, to find someone to kill Velvet Burns. Mizrahi painted a vivid picture of the murder scene, describing it as an “especially violent” occurrence that left a bloody mark on the community.

At the time of the murder, Jerry Burns was not present in the home, but evidence links him to the crime through his relationship with Love. Mizrahi detailed how Burns paid Love $30,000 to arrange the killing, albeit the funds were allegedly spent on other activities rather than hiring a hitman. Following the murder, Mizrahi stated that Burns promised Love an additional $20,000 once the deed was completed.

The Assailants

Two others have already been convicted in connection with Velvet Burns’ murder. Stephen Hand, who previously had a troubled relationship with Love and shared three children with her, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is serving a life sentence. During his testimony on the first day of the trial, Hand confirmed that Jerry Burns had indeed paid him for the murder.

“Amanda was pretty much in a relationship with Mr. Burns, and he kind of financed [us] from November through May,” Hand explained on the stand. His testimony revealed the complicated dynamics between the three individuals involved.

Legal Arguments and Defense Strategy

As the trial unfolds, the defense has framed Jerry Burns as unfaithful but not guilty of the actual murder. Defense attorney Michael Bossen argued that although Burns had a problem, it was not proof of him orchestrating his wife’s killing. “He had a problem, and that problem he did bring on himself. And that’s Amanda Love,” Bossen stated, attempting to separate Burns’ infidelity from the murder charge.

Charges and Current Proceedings

In addition to first-degree murder, Burns is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder and solicitation to commit a capital felony. As the prosecution prepares to introduce further evidence, Love is expected to testify on Thursday, which could shift the trajectory of the case significantly.

The courtroom is filled with tension as both sides prepare to present their arguments. The community watches closely, remembering the tragic events that unfolded years ago and awaiting justice for Velvet Burns.