JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The retrial for the man accused of killing a local community activist in 2022 is underway.

William “Polo” Edwards appeared before Judge Eleanor Faye Peterson on Monday, December 9 after filing several motions to suppress certain information during the retrial.

One motion he filed was to suppress autopsy photos of the victim, Better Men Society founder Robert Davis, specifically regarding entry and exit wounds. The state does plan to submit the autopsy pictures.

Edwards made a motion to suppress information about Facebook posts regarding verification of an account, which Peterson deemed premature. He also requested suppressing information regarding a lack of a photo lineup.

Edwards is now being represented by Attorney William Mullennix. Peterson previously approved a motion for Brandon Dorsey to withdraw as the counsel for Edwards, who will now actively participate alongside Mullennix in the retrial. 

Jury selection will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, December 9, and opening statements are set to begin on Tuesday, December 10.

Edwards is accused of killing Davis inside Shadow Robinson’s Clinton home on May 1, 2022.

Edwards was arrested in connection to the case after a chase in New Orleans, Louisiana, on May 3, 2022. He was indicted for murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm in Hinds County. Edwards pled not guilty.

Edwards’ first trial ended with a mistrial in August 2023.