The fate of Terry Nichols, one of the men accused of carrying out the bombing at Oklahoma City, is now in the hands of the jury. Nichols is charged on eleven counts of conspiracy and first-degree murder. If he is convicted, he faces the death penalty. His alleged co-conspirator, Timothy McVeigh, was convicted and sentenced to death a few months ago. Jane Hughes reports from outside the courthouse in Denver:

The jury of seven women and five men have evidence from almost 200 witnesses to consider. They will be deciding whether they believe the prosecution contention that Terry Nichols conspired with Timothy McVeigh to gather the components of the 1,800 kg Oklahoma City bomb, to build the bomb and to arrange a getaway car for McVeigh.

The chief prosecutor, Larry Mackey, told the jury: "It's 32 months since the bombing - 32 months since a 168 people lost their lives. It's time," he said, "for you to render justice in the most horrific crime in American history."

Prosecutors say they have a mountain of evidence against Terry Nichols - though, as the defence points out, all the evidence is circumstantial.

Defence lawyers say there's nothing to link Terry Nichols to the bombing. They say the FBI jumped to conclusions, deciding he was guilty and then trying to make the evidence fit their theory.

They point out that he was miles from Oklahoma City when the bomb exploded. To reach a verdict of innocence would send a message that the justice system works, said Michael Tigar for the defence.

Mr Nichols is charged with 11 counts of conspiracy and first-degree murder. If he's convicted he could face the death penalty.