Grand Jury Expected To Hear Case Against Brandon Scott Lavergne Today At 3pm

Brandon Scott Lavergne will have his first day in court today, even though he won't be present. The 33 year old is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping in the disappearance of Mickey Shunick. The grand jury is expected to consider the Lavergne case at 3 p.m.

According to the Shreveport Times, "Lavergne and his attorneys will not be present for the hearing. District Attorney Mike Harson said an invitation was not extended to the defense.

This afternoon, Assistant District Attorney Keith Stutes will present the state's case against Lavergne to the grand jury. The defense does not present evidence, ask questions or have the opportunity to object during a grand jury hearing. Next, the grand jury is left alone to deliberate and make a decision, Cedars said.

Nine must agree either to issue a true bill, giving the OK to proceed with prosecution; a no true bill, in which the jury decides there's not enough evidence to proceed to trial; or pretermit, which is a delay in a decision while awaiting additional information."