Pacific

Norfolk Islands first murder trial in 150 years opens today

08:03 am on 7 February 2007

The first murder trial on Australia's Norfolk Island in 150 years is expected to get underway before a jury of local residents today.

New Zealander Glenn McNeill is charged with murdering Janelle Patton of Sydney in March 2002.

Mr McNeill has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

A jury of seven men and five women was sworn in on Monday and is expected to start hearing the case this morning.