It's trial time everyone.
There is one song in this chapter
Ayanna's song is I'll Fight by Jennifer Hudson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkR5IWNDreg
Day one of The People vs Elliot Stabler commences as new challenges occur.
As Denise Bullock was preparing her notes to begin the trial, Calhoun and Buchanan make a request to speak to Judge Donnelly in her chambers. Denise hears it and says.
"Is this something I need to hear?"
"This is nothing that concerns you Counselor." Rita says.
"I believe it does if it's going to affect the trial for my client."
"Ms, Bullock is right Ms. Calhoun. She can hear this as well."
"Your Honor, the defense believes that the charges of sexual harassment should be tried separately. It's more prejudicial than probative for our client." Rita says.
"I disagree Your Honor. Detective Stabler's behavior towards Detective Slootmaekers proves this is an ongoing pattern. Captain Benson's and Detective Slootmaekers' testimony back each other up."
"Your Honor, how is our client supposed to even have a chance at a fair trial if he's got two women accusing him of sexual harassment, one of them claiming he hurt her?" Buchanan says.
"There are three witnesses to what happened to Captain Benson in regards to the event Mr. Buchanan is referring to. Not only that, Sergeant Bell and Detective Slootmaekers are witnesses to Detective Stabler's behavior as well. You may call it unfair but it all goes back to the heart of the case." Denise says firmly.
Donnelly takes a minute to think everything over.
"Ms. Bullock is right. The charges will be tried altogether, but will be presented as separate evidence."
Buchanan isn't done though.
"Your Honor Captain Benson and Detective Slootmaekers' alleged harassments have nothing to do with each other except for the fact that they are both accusing Detective Stabler."
"That isn't true. Both Captain Benson and Detective Slootmaekers' will testify to the fact that their harassment includes Detective Stabler gaslighting them and touching them without consent."
"I agree with Ms. Bullock. The charges brought here today will be one trial."
"Thank you, Your Honor."
The three all go back to their respective tables. Elliott whispers.
"What happened?"
"We were denied on having separate trials for your charges from Detective Slootmaekers and Captain Benson." Rita says.
"Which means the tensions will be high so don't lose your temper." Buchanan adds on.
"I'll behave." Elliot says.
"I'll believe it when I see it." Rita thinks.
"Good. And don't worry Stabler, everything is going to be fine." Buchanan says.
A few minutes later the jury files in and Judge Donnelly takes her seat and bangs her gavel to declare the start of the trial. She looks at Denise.
"Alright Counselor, you may now give your opening statement."
Denise stands up and walks in front of the jury.
"Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen. We are here today to determine if the people still believe that there are no exceptions for following the law, especially from those sworn to protect and serve."
