Murder Trial Begins

Attorney Rick Prysock and Glenna Duram, who is accused of first degree murder in the death of her husband

Ensley Township woman standing trial in 2015 death of her husband
By Ken DeLaat

The murder trial of Glenna Mary Duram charged with first degree murder in the May 2015 death of her husband Marty Duram got underway in the 27th Circuit Court in White Cloud  Friday as the jury of 12 + 2 alternates (11 women and 3 men) heard opening arguments from the prosecution and the defense.

The Honorable H. Kevin Drake presided over the proceedings that began with Newaygo County Prosecuting Attorney Ellsworth Stay addressing the jury as to the evidence that will be presented including DNA, the firearms report, phone messages and letters gathered by the Michigan State Police during their investigation.

He also spoke to the financial problems that may have been a factor in the tragic event with a Sheriff’s sale of the house pending that very week.

Citing a preponderance of evidence gathered at the scene and through further investigation  Mr. Stay concluded “It quickly becomes evident that the defendant murdered Marty Duram and attempted to commit suicide.”

Defense attorneys Rick Prysock and Mark Miller then took their turn talking to jury members with Mr. Prysock discussing the role of the jury in such cases and Mr. Miller casting doubts on the efficacy of what had been presented as evidence.He also questioned the influence of the financial difficulties pointing out that the Duram’s had adequate resources.

“They didn’t have financial problems, they had bill paying problems,” he stated.

“Mr. Stay has to prove without a reasonable doubt that Glenna Duram killed Marty Duram,”said Mr. Miller.

“Glenna Duram did not pull that trigger,”

Ms. Duram sat quietly through the proceedings though she  appeared to tear up when Mr. Miller spoke of the relationship between she and her husband.

Judge Drake related instructions to the jury advising them to not discuss the case and to refrain from looking at news reports or social media posts regarding the case.

The jury was then dismissed until Monday morning when the trial will resume.

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