MIAMI – Jury selection began Monday in the public corruption trial of former Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez.
This is the second time this year that potential jurors have been questioned for this trial. Both sides are trying to go through the jury pool to find a panel of nine. The trial is expected to last two weeks.
Judge Miguel de la O asked jurors, “How do you think you’ve heard of this case before?”
Judge Miguel de la O also asked if jurors had any opinions on Martinez’s guilt or innocence before the trial began.
Each group of prospective jurors was asked about scheduling conflicts, familiarity with Martinez, or if they had heard about the allegations against him.
Judge Miguel de la O continued, “Did you start to form any opinions about whether he’s guilty or not guilty?”
This is the second attempt to seat a jury for this case. Earlier this year, the process was halted following a defense effort to remove the judge.
Martinez was arrested in 2022. Prosecutors allege he accepted $15,000 in payments from a local supermarket owner while serving on the commission.
In exchange, Martinez allegedly pushed for a new county ordinance that would have benefited the owner, who was facing code enforcement issues.
The ordinance was ultimately never adopted. Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Martinez from his post following the arrest.
Martinez, a former law enforcement officer, also made a failed run for Miami-Dade sheriff over the summer. He faces charges of unlawful compensation and conspiracy and has pleaded not guilty.
Jury selection will continue Tuesday, with opening statements likely to begin on Wednesday.
If convicted, Martinez could face up to 20 years in prison.