Pen Clue Allowed in 13-Year-Old Campus Murder Case

Pretrial hearings are continuing this week for the murder case of UNC student Faith Hedgepeth, who was found dead over 13 years ago. The accused, Miguel Enrique Salguero-Olivares, faces first-degree murder and other charges. Judge Keith Gregory recently ruled on what evidence will be presented to jurors. Cameras will be permitted in the courtroom during witness testimony, including that of Hedgepeth's former roommate. Autopsy photos and crime scene images of the victim's body will not be shown to the jury. Evidence derived from investigative genetic genealogy has been excluded. However, prosecutors will be allowed to present arguments that a pen discovered at the crime scene was used to write a message found on a takeout bag near where Hedgepeth's body was located. Additionally, the judge ruled that Salguero-Olivares will be presented to the jury in civilian clothing, without visible handcuffs, as the trial approaches. Further rulings on pending motions are anticipated as attorneys finalize preparations for the trial scheduled to commence next month.