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O.J. Simpson trial: Jury gets instructions in advance of closing arguments

By The Associated Press

Story Created: Oct 2, 2008 at 4:25 PM EST

Story Updated: Oct 2, 2008 at 4:26 PM EST

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Jurors in O.J. Simpson's armed robbery and kidnapping trial in Las Vegas have begun hearing instructions on the legal elements of the case.

First, the judge had to settle disputes about the wording of certain terms, including the definition of robbery. Closing arguments will follow.

Simpson and co-defendant Clarence Stewart are being tried on allegations that they, along with four other men, confronted two sports memorabilia dealers in a Las Vegas casino hotel last year. They say they were trying to recover mementos that once belonged to the former NFL star.

They face five years to life in prison if convicted of kidnapping, or mandatory prison time if found guilty of armed robbery.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)