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Trial Of Wayne County Man Accused Of Killing 5-Year-Old Begins Monday

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eric lane
GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The trial of a man accused of killing a 5-year-old girl is scheduled to begin Monday.

Investigators said Eric Lane kidnapped, raped and killed Precious Whitfield in May 2002. Her body was found in a creek near the Airport Road bridge.

Lane is representing himself in the trial. If convicted, he faces the death penalty.

Lane's trial has been delayed several times, including once so a mental evaluation of him could be completed.

Last year, a mistrial was declared because of juror misconduct. A 71-year old man told other potential jurors that he had strong feelings toward the death penalty, tainting the jury pool.

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