Flynn murder trial heads toward jury deliberations

The prosecution and defense rested Monday in the murder trial of Caleb Flynn, bringing the case closer to jury deliberations after prosecutors presented testimony from 40 witnesses over seven days. Flynn’s defense called no witnesses. Closing arguments are scheduled for Tuesday morning, after which the jury is expected to consider the charges; no verdict has been reported. Flynn, 40, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder, tampering with evidence and other charges. A conviction on the aggravated murder charge could carry a sentence of life in prison without parole. Prosecutors allege Flynn killed his wife, Ashley Flynn, and staged the scene to make it appear an intruder was responsible. The firearm prosecutors say was used has not been recovered. The prosecution’s case included testimony about Flynn’s affair with Alleigha Botner, messages between them and his account of the night Ashley was killed. Botner testified about messages in which Flynn expressed hostility toward his wife and described thinking of ways to kill her without going to jail. Prosecutors have argued the relationship and messages provide evidence of motive.