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Former New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez took the witness stand for the first time in his high profile murder case Wednesday. While giving his testimony, the 23-year-old football player told the Bristol County Superior Court Judge Susan Garsh that he was not mentally ill and that he wished to continue to be represented by Michael Fee.
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Hernandez's announcement comes amid claims that there is a potential conflict of interest with Fee as he is a partner at Ropes and Gray where Assistant District Attorney Patrick Bomber's wife is also a partner.
Dressed in a neat black blazer, blue tie and khaki pants, Hernandez said he "played football...NFL" when asked about his profession and testified he was not under any medication before being reminded by the judge that he could be remanded to life in prison without parole if convicted guilty.
Hernandez was arrested June 26 on first degree murder charges for the death of 27-year-old semi-pro football player Odin Lloyd.
A total of six people -- including his fiancee Shayana Jenkins -- have been charged in connection with Lloyd's murder either as an accessory after the fact or for lying to investigators.
Although Hernandez was allowed to keep Fee as his attorney, prosecutors are asking that the judge be removed from the case and filed a memorandum claiming Bristol County assistant district attorney William McCauley has clashed with Grash in the past.
The judge said she would schedule a separate hearing to discuss the matter.
