Jury selection and testimony began this week in the murder trial of Delano Forbes, who is accused of killing postal worker Maurison Thomas in 2018.

Forbes, 31, faces four separate murder charges. He sat quietly during the proceedings in the High Court, communicating with his attorney by written notes.

After two potential jurors were challenged, a panel of nine women and two men was sworn in to hear the case.

According to Island Press Box, the first witness, a neighbor of the deceased, testified that he went to Thomas’ home on the night of March 7, 2018, after being unable to reach him. He said a group went to check on Thomas and noticed his television was still on but saw no sign of him inside. When they tried the kitchen door, it opened, releasing a strong smell of blood.

Inside, Thomas was found face down in the living room, partially covered with clothing and pinned under a couch, with blood visible on the floor.

The court also heard testimony regarding Forbes’ recapture weeks after he allegedly escaped police custody. Officers said they found him hiding in a pump house in the Folly’s area after noticing a light inside the bush-covered structure. A strong odor of marijuana reportedly led them to the location.

A search revealed wallets, cash, a camouflage hoodie, floral pants, red water boots, and a pair of scissors believed to be stained with blood. Forbes allegedly claimed ownership of all the items.

He was acquitted in 2020 of charges related to his alleged escape from custody. The murder trial continues this week.