Capital murder trial set to begin next week

A Wise County capital murder trial set to begin in October will be moved to Jack County and start Monday.

The trial of Ronnie Brezina, who is accused of killing Brandy Wallen, 45, of Decatur, was moved to Jack County because of the inability to come up with a 12-person impartial jury. More than 300 jury summons were sent out, according to a Wise County Messenger story.

Judge Brock Smith, 271st District Judge, agreed to move the trial here, but the defense team wanted to keep the trial in Wise County, noting they may not find a fair jury there either. James Stainton, 271st District Attorney, said a large number of potential jurors had to be dismissed after being asked if they could fairly consider giving a minimum punishment in the case.

The trial is expected to last two weeks. Because of the seriousness of the trial, extra security measures are being taken, according to Jack County Judge Keith Umphress. Umphress said only the north doors will have access both in and out. Those entering the courthouse will be walked through metal detectors. Extra security will be visible throughout the courthouse as a precautionary measure.

Brezina is being charged with capital murder, which would carry an automatic life sentence is he is found guilty. He is accused of cutting and stabbing Wallen to death, while in the course attempting to commit offenses of robbery and kidnapping at a Decatur tanning salon in January 2019.

The two had previously been in a dating relationship, according to the indictment.