Zimmerman Won't Testify; Defense Rests

The George Zimmerman jury won't hear from Zimmerman himself. The defendant told the judge in his murder trial today that he had decided not to take the stand, reports the Orlando Sentinel. Afterward, his defense team rested its case, which means the jury could begin deliberations by the end of the week. First comes rebuttal witnesses called by prosecutors, then closing arguments from both sides, reports AP.

For its final witness, the defense called Zimmerman's father, Robert, who testified that it was his son's voice screaming for help in the background of a 911 call, reports CNN. Zimmerman's mother earlier said the same thing, in contrast to the testimony of Trayvon Martin's mother and bother, who believe it was Trayvon screaming. The defense also called a neighborhood resident who recounted a home invasion at her house and said she was grateful for Zimmerman's presence afterward. (More George Zimmerman stories.)