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Trial begins in woman’s killing of half-brother

MAYVILLE – A rage-filled act of violence or a justified case of self-defense?

The question was the heart of opening statements Tuesday in the trial of Barbara J. Redeye, the 24-year-old Jamestown woman accused of murdering her half-brother — 36-year-old Dale A. Redeye- on Aug. 14.

Patrick Swanson, Chautauqua County district attorney, implored the jury to use their common sense in his opening, insisting the defendant’s morphing version of events as well as the grisly injuries inflicted on the victim’s body reflect the work of an angry, hysterical individual-not someone defending themselves.

Dale A. Redeye, who shared a 501 Lakeview Ave. upstairs apartment with the defendant, was reportedly found with five stab wounds, 20 cuts and multiple abrasions, according to Swanson.

A knife was reportedly sticking out of the victim’s neck when found.

Swanson said the defendant first told police that a man dressed in black had committed the murder and fled the scene. Redeye would later acknowledge to police that she herself stabbed the victim out of self-defense.

Nathaniel Barone, county public defender and Redeye’s counsel, insisted self-defense was necessary.

Describing Dale A. Redeye as a “vicious, aggressive abuser” who had a history of drugs, alcohol and even state prison time, Barone said his client acted “instinctively” when the victim rushed at her with a kitchen knife.

Barone stated that the victim was angry at Redeye’s mother for interfering in his future business ambitions.

Barone also stated that police rushed to judgement when arresting and charging Redeye with second-degree murder, insisting they made their decision before any investigation or autopsy results were completed.

The trial is scheduled to resume at 1:30 p.m.

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