With a jury seated in Miami, both sides presented opening statements in the trial of John Couey on March 1. Prosecutor Ric Ridgway described in detail how Jessica's body was buried outside Couey's trailer, her fingers poking through a plastic bag. Listening intently, but showing little outward emotion, was Mark Lunsford, Jessica's father.
Special Report The disappearance of 9-year-old Jessica Lunsford in February 2005 sparked a nationwide search but ended tragically close to home.
Convicted sex offender John Couey confessed to kidnapping, raping and burying her alive. A judge later ruled that confession inadmissible, and Couey has pleaded not guilty.