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Jury selection is set to commence today (April 1) in the attempted murder trial of Orlando Williams in Hudson. Williams, 54, faces multiple charges, including attempted second-degree murder and kidnapping, stemming from a domestic incident in March 2024.
The incident occurred when Williams allegedly surprised his ex-girlfriend on her back porch, covering her mouth to prevent her from calling for help. He then reportedly dragged her to a wooded area behind Hudson's shuttered John L. Edwards primary school, threatening to kill her and attempting to strangle and stab her. The victim's boyfriend intervened after hearing her screams, causing Williams to flee. Police later apprehended him in Greene County.
Williams was charged with several felonies, including second-degree strangulation and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He also faces a charge of first-degree criminal contempt, as the victim had an order of protection against him. According to the Times Union, Williams was initially arraigned and held without bail. If convicted, he could face up to 25 years in prison.
The trial is expected to draw significant attention, given the severity of the charges and the circumstances surrounding the case. The Columbia County District Attorney’s Office will present its case, while Williams' defense team, yet to be confirmed, will argue on his behalf.