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Jury Deliberations Expected To Begin Today In Babysitter Murder Trial

By Brad Segall

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Jury deliberations are expected to begin today in the trial of a former babysitter accused of murdering the five month old infant she was caring for nearly twenty years ago in Bridgeport, Montgomery County.

The defense wrapped up its case yesterday with Melissa Haskell choosing not to take the stand to tell her own story. The 38-year-old woman told Judge Garrett Page she did not plan to testify.

She also told the judge she didn't want to pursue what's called a progression charge. Under that scenario the judge would have instructed the jury that they could consider an involuntary manslaughter charge which carries lesser jail time. Haskell is charged with third degree murder. Defense attorney Frank Genovese says Haskell steadfastly maintains her innocence and believes she will be acquitted.

The final day of testimony ended with expert witnesses for both sides disagreeing over the cause of Ryan Baurley's death nearly two decades ago. The prosecution and defense will present their closing arguments this morning and then eight men and four women will decide Haskell's fate.

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