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Grace Proceedings Recess Because of Sick Jurors

By Beacon Staff

MISSOULA – The W.R. Grace & Co. criminal trial recessed early on Wednesday after a flu virus apparently spread through the jury room.

After the daily lunch break in the asbestos case, U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy told lawyers that three jurors had fallen ill.

After seating the jury, Molloy surveyed the 15-person panel.

One juror said, “I feel like I’m going to throw up.”

Molloy decided the prudent thing to do would be to adjourn for the afternoon.

The Missoulian newspaper reported the day’s developments on its Web site.

The government’s next witness was scheduled to take the stand Thursday morning.

At issue in the trial is whether Columbia, Md.-based Grace and five one-time company officials knew they were endangering the community of Libby by mining asbestos-laced ore, and whether they did so in violation of federal law.