Whitmer kidnapping trial postponed due to COVID-19

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - The trial for four men accused of plotting to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been postponed due to a COVID-19 case.

U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker ordered the delay late Sunday. This was all caused because an essential participant tested positive for COVID-19.

More: COVID-19 delays trial of 4 in alleged plot to abduct Mich. Gov. Whitmer

The federal trial began just last week and is expected to last more than a month. In the coming weeks, undercover FBI agents and informants are expected to testify.

The men are accused of taking extreme actions while planning her kidnapping, including having gun drills in the woods, planning to blow up a bridge, and even taking a scouting trip to the governor’s second home. The defense team says the men were heavily influenced by an FBI informant.

More: Prosecutors play tape of man accused in plot to kidnap Gov. Whitmer talking about abducting her

The trial may be delayed at least until Thursday depending on a negative COVID-19 test.

WILX will continue to keep you updated on when it resumes.

More: Lawyers: FBI lured men for Michigan Gov. Whitmer kidnap plot

Copyright 2022 WILX. All rights reserved.

Subscribe to our News 10 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every morning.