Trial under way for Des Moines man accused of killing girlfriend

Associated Press

Aug. 11, 2010 7:20 am

A Des Moines man accused of killing his girlfriend is on trial in Polk County.

A jury was selected Tuesday to hear the first-degree murder case against Christopher Phipps. Opening statements are expected Wednesday.

Phipps is accused of beating to death Melissa Dean in September 2009. Her body was found in the back of a pickup truck in a parking lot.

During jury selection, Phipps' lawyers suggested that they might present a diminished-capacity defense.

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