Pre-trial Hearings In Joran Van Der Sloot's Murder Case To Begin Today

Joran Van Der Sloot’s Murder Trial To Begin

Pre-trial hearings are scheduled to begin today in Joran van der Sloot's murder trial. It is the first public hearing since the Dutchman was formally charged with killing a Peruvian business student.

Van der Sloot, a longtime suspect in the 2005 disappearance in Aruba of Natalee Holloway, is charged with first-degree murder and robbery for the May 30, 2010 slaying of Stephany Flores, 21. Flores was found dead in his hotel room in Lima on June 2, 2010.

Peruvian prosecutors are seeking a 30-year prison sentence and $73,000 restitution for Flores' family. They allege van der Sloot's motive was robbery.

Van der Sloot's attorney wants to enter a manslaughter plea on behalf of his client, with a reduced sentence of six to 20 years. Van der Sloot's defense is that he was temporarily insane, the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported.

The trial is expected to begin in Lima, Peru in October.

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