NEW ORLEANS — A judge heard opening arguments Monday in the criminal trial for former Orleans Parish 911 Communications Director Tyrell Morris.

Morris is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say he falsified reports about a car accident he was in two years ago.

Before heading into the courtroom on Monday, Morris said he was ready to defend himself, but wouldn’t comment on the trial strategy when asked if he would take the stand.

"I’m just excited to finally be here today to assert my innocence," Morris told reporters. "We live in a land of laws and processes. I trust the process. I’ve handed it over to the Lord, and I look forward to going through this process and declare victory at the end.”

Hammer interviewed Morris when he announced his campaign for mayor. He was later

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