Opening Statements In Castle West Trial

COLORADO SPRINGS – Opening statements in the Derrick Johnson murder trial were presented Wednesday. He’s the main suspect in the Castle West apartment fire. Police say Johnson set the January, 2007 fire after arguing with and threatening a girlfriend.

Prosecutors say they will present surveillance video that shows Johnson buying gasoline at a nearby convenience store and witnesses who will put Johnson at the Castle West building at the time of the fire.

The defense says after Colorado Springs police named Johnson as the main suspect, detectives stopped questioning other potential suspects. Defense attorneys plan to introduce evidence of gang involvement with the fire.

25-year old Derrick Johnson is charged with two counts of first degree murder, arson and attempted murder. Johnson is pleading not guilty. Testimony beings on Thursday afternoon.