Jury sent home in Entwistle trial

Neil Entwistle denies murdering his wife and nine-month-old daughter

The jury in the US trial of a Briton accused of murdering his wife and baby has been sent home for the night.

Neil Entwistle, 29, of Worksop, Notts, denies killing wife Rachel, 27, and nine-month-old Lillian Rose, at their home in Massachusetts in January 2006.

Judge Diane Kottmyer told jurors to put aside emotions and come to a unanimous verdict based on reason and judgment.

Jurors are considering verdicts of first degree murder, second degree murder, or not guilty.

First degree murder would mean he acted with deliberate premeditation and malice. Second degree murder would mean he intended to cause death or grievous bodily harm.

'Fair and just'

The jury was sent out at 1410 BST (0910am local time) on the 13th day of the trial which has heard from 46 witnesses.

The judge told jurors: "You must spend whatever time is necessary to reach a fair and just verdict."

The court has heard Mr Entwistle had a secret life which involved trawling the internet for escorts. There was also evidence that he had viewed websites about how to kill people.

The defence suggested Mrs Entwistle killed the baby before committing suicide - which Mr Entwistle tried to cover up to "protect her honour".

Mr Entwistle's DNA was found on the grip of the .22 Colt revolver used to kill his wife and daughter.

Michael Fabbri, prosecuting, accused the defence of "red herrings".

"This was a homicide, not a suicide," said Mr Fabbri.