POTEAU (KFSM) -- Documents filed at the LeFlore County courthouse give a glimpse of how Elvis Thacker's lawyers plan to defend his case.
Thacker is accused of first-degree murder in the September 2010 death of Briana Ault, after her body was found in a Pocola pond. Investigators said she had been sexually assaulted and her throat had been cut. Jury selection is underway and is expected to wrap up by Friday (April 8). Opening statements are expected to begin on Monday (April 11).
Thacker, if convicted, will face the possibility of the death penalty in the sentencing phase of the trial.
Elvis' brother Johnathen pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in Ault's death. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, after he agreed to testify against his brother. The prosecution in the case is relying on Johnathen Thacker's testimony to paint a picture of what happened at the time Ault was murdered.
Elvis Thacker's defense team claims innocence, and their client was not present and did not take part in Ault's death.
According to court documents filed in LeFlore County pertaining to Elvis Thacker's murder trial, more than 50 witnesses will be called to the stand.
In the documents is a notice of intent to use other crimes, filed by the defendant's team.
The paperwork stated:
"Mr. Thacker has previously provided information regarding the evidence of other crimes, and hereby provides specific notice that evidence of other crimes is intended to show that Johnathen Thacker committed the charged offense, and to show his motive for testifying, bias and prejudice against Elvis Thacker."
The paperwork goes on to claim that Johnathen Thacker is accused of sexually assaulting a family member and mentions an expert is expected to testify.
"Johnathen Thacker stole the bras and panties of his sisters, wore them, and took pictures of himself in their undergarments. Dr. Turvey will explain that this is a common characteristic of sexually sadistic serial killers. Johnathen Thacker was enthralled with pornography from a relatively young age, and corrupted the family computer with it. Dr. Turvey will testify that interest in pornography is a common serial killer behavior."
On Friday, lawyers are expected to choose the final 12 jurors. The date on which Johnathen Thacker is expected to testify against his brother has not been set.
Law enforcement agencies said they will have extra security at the LeFlore County courthouse during the entire trial process.