Trial begins for Nibley man accused of sexual assault

Jacob L. Christensen, 24, accused of rape and forcible sodomy, both first-degree felonies.

LOGAN — The trial for a 24-year-old Nibley man accused of sexual assault, began in 1st District Court Tuesday morning.

Jacob L. Christensen is accused of rape and forcible sodomy, both first-degree felonies.

During jury selection, potential jurors were asked if they knew anyone who was ever a victim of sexual assault and if that would compromise their ability to serve.

Judge Kevin Allen called for a short recess after the 10 jurors were selected.

During the afternoon both the prosecution and defense presented their opening arguments.

State Attorney Barbara Lachmar said the victim and Christensen had known each other as friends, for years. He reportedly assaulted the victim after she and her college roommate had taken a sleep aid.

Defense attorney Wayne Caldwell argued that the state is only focusing on a couple aspects of the relationship Christensen had with the victim and not the whole story.

Following opening statements, Judge Allen excused the jury for the day and told them to return again Wednesday.

The trial is expected to continue three more days.

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