Even in her grief, look how respectful Katrina is of the court process and understanding about people who may not be there in the courtroom but who support the family

 

I just did a detailed post on April 28 about Jake Combs retrial. 

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/04/due-to-judge-cockrums-error-and-jake.html?m=1

I did extensive coverage of the first trial and what is important is justice for Trevor. I will not be in the courtroom daily for the retrial but those who follow me know how I will cover significant developments and of course, the outcome.

I am not in the courtroom lately and why is not something I am sharing with strangers on Facebook or the blog or most people. For 12 years, I have been there for many families, many victims and I still am. 

Katrina Earley posted on Facebook about jurors being finalized and opening statements and evidence tomorrow. Even in her grief, look how respectful Katrina is of the court process and understanding about people who may not be there in the courtroom but who support the family.

When I am at the courthouse, if the timing works, I will check in with the Earleys and Supervisor Michelle Bushnell who I know will be there, as often as she can.

5/5/26: Two minutes ago, a somber Courtroom 1 jury in Jake Combs homicide trial left for their morning break. Humboldt County Senior Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm has finished giving her opening statements. She was headed to her office. Deputy Public Defenders Ryan McClurg and Emery Welton huddled in a conference room by Courtroom 7.

Supervisor Bushnell is here. On one side of the courtroom is mostly the Earley family and others I saw during the first trial. A lot of pain which is visible as you observe Trevor's loved ones.

HCSO Det. Shane Steele testified this morning. Humboldt DA Investigator Martin Morris is lead investigator for the case.

Katrina Earley summarized what jury being sworn more accurately than most local media who sit in court and can look at minutes. Often family members do not show restraint in what they post, are not objective and are not accurate. The Earley family is an example of how to conduct yourself in a court and ongoing trial.

5/5/26 court minutes: