Jury convicts Paul Edward Westbrooks Jr of murder in trial's first phase

The court proceedings on May 1, 2025, presided over by Judge Raquel West, culminated in a significant verdict in the trial of Paul Edward Westbrooks Jr. The jury, having reached a unanimous decision, found Westbrooks guilty of murder as charged in the indictment. This verdict marks a pivotal moment in the trial, transitioning from the initial phase to the upcoming punishment phase.

Following the jury's announcement, Judge West confirmed the conclusion of the trial's first phase and scheduled the punishment phase to commence the next morning at 9:00 AM. The judge emphasized the importance of logistical arrangements, noting the late hour and the need to ensure all parties were prepared for the next steps.

During the proceedings, the judge also addressed the status of the alternate jurors, allowing them to be released from further obligations now that a verdict had been reached. The judge instructed the remaining jurors to adhere to previous admonishments and to arrive early for the next session.

Additionally, Judge West revoked any bond associated with the case, indicating that Westbrooks would remain in custody until the conclusion of the trial. The judge also ordered that Westbrooks' fingerprints be taken that afternoon, ensuring all procedural requirements were met before the next phase of the trial.

As the court adjourned for the evening, Judge West requested that all attorneys arrive early the following day to finalize the charge for the punishment phase, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation for the proceedings ahead. The courtroom was left with a clear sense of anticipation as the case moves forward into its next critical stage.