UTICA - Jury selection began this morning in the trial of Wesley Molina-Cirino, also known by his street name of "Flaco." Cirino is charged with the shooting death of Officer Thomas Lindsey in April of 2007.

The courtroom was crowded with prospective jurors lining up this morning outside the court doors at one point. All in preparation for a trial that isn't expected to go by quickly.

Prosecutors say 35-40 witnesses will be called to the stand to testify. Rebecca Wittman is representing Cirino. She was not immediately available to discuss the case.

Judge Barry Donalty, who will preside over the trial, said jurors will be told to expect at least a two week trial. While the 5th floor lobby was fairly empty as the morning progressed the police presence increased.

Members of UPD who worked closely with Thomas Lindsey are expected to be in attendance all week. Chief C. Allen Pylman had this to say about the impact the trial is having at UPD headquarters.

"The closer it gets, then we are going to have to rehash what happened to Tom, vividly," Pylman said. "There is a wide range of emotions...from sorry...to the anticipation that I have, to the relief that hopefully by the middle of next week this will be over."

Pylman confirmed that he will testify Tuesday. Prosecutors plan to call a lot of police and civilian witnesses for testimony, but wouldn't specify who we'll hear from.

District Attorney Scott McNamara declined to comment on the case now that the trial is underway.

Jury selection is expected to continue all day and may lead into tomorrow.