Zimmerman Verdict: County Urges ‘Calm’ as Verdict Looms

As the second-degree murder trial of George Zimmerman comes to a close, Hillsborough County Commissioners are bracing for what might be a controversial verdict.

Hillsborough County Commissioner Les Miller Jr. and members of the Hillsborough County Black Elected Officials organization plan to make a public appeal for “calm as the jury in the George Zimmerman trial deliberates and delivers its verdict,” a media release from the county said.

A 1:30 p.m. press conference is planned today, July 12, at County Center, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Zimmerman is on trial in Sanford for the 2012 shooting death of Trayvon Martin, 17. Closing arguments in the racially charged case were being presented by the defense this morning, according to FOX News.

While Sanford isn’t exactly next door to Hillsborough, Martin’s death has drawn passionate outcries from people all over the country. Al Sharpton, an outspoken champion of the black community, has taken a keen interest in the case, helping keep it in the national spotlight.

Do you think there’s a need to “appeal for the public to remain calm” in Hillsborough? What do you think the jury will decide, Carrollwood? Let us know by commenting below!