Hernandez's lawyers accuse authorities of leaking info to media

FALL RIVER, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Defense attorneys for Aaron Hernandez accused investigators of jeopardizing their client's right to a fair trial during the former New England Patriot's pre-trial hearing Monday.

Hernandez's attorneys cited news reports about Miami Dolphin Mike Pouncey being subpoenaed at Gillette Stadium as an example of authorities making "prejudicial" statements related to his case. Sports Illustrated first reported Pouncey was asked to testify before a grand jury probing an interstate gun trafficking operation.

Attorneys claimed reports such as the one about Pouncey's subpoena referenced law enforcement sources. They claim this violates a gag order in the case and that if they knew where the leaks came from they would ask for the person to be prosecuted.

The prosecution said there is no evidence indicating anyone from the Bristol County District Attorney's office is connected to the leaks. They also said protocols were in place to keep investigators from sharing information with the press.

The judge told both the defense and prosecution to write an outline of what steps should be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. Another pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for Feb. 5.

The 24-year-old mouthed "I love you" to his mother and his fiancee, Shayanna Jenkins, as he was led out of the courtroom. His mother began to cry after he turned to look at her and said "Merry Christmas" to him.

Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to murder in the June shooting death of Odin Lloyd, a 27-year-old semi-professional football player who was dating Jenkins' sister.

Lloyd's family last week filed a wrongful death suit against the ex-Patriot, seeking unspecified damages.

Cox Media Group