MONCTON, NB – The first degree murder trial of Fred Prosser is underway in a Moncton courtroom.

Crown Prosecutor Anne St. Jacques delivered opening statements to the jury saying that she will call expert witnesses who will confirm the blood of Sabrina Patterson was found on a pair of jeans that were owned by Prosser.

She also told the court that Patterson’s personal belongings were found near Prosser’s home after he body was found in the fall of 2010.

St. Jacques says witnesses will testify that Patterson died of strangulation, and injuries she sustained would indicate she was sexually assaulted.

Prosser is facing three charges, first degree murder, sexual assault and sexual assault causing bodily harm.

The Crown’s first witness was Sergeant Blake Kierstead, formerly with Codiac RCMP, who was an investigator at the time Patterson’s body was found in 2010.

A jury made up of five men and 7 women will help decide Prosser’s fate.

The trial continues this afternoon.