BEDFORD CO. (WSLS 10) - The man charged in the murders of Maryland sisters Katherine and Sheila Lyon returned to court Friday for a pre-trial motions hearing.
The lawyers for Lloyd Lee Welch asked to hire an expert criminal investigator, mental health expert, and mitigation specialist. The judge approved all of the requests.
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The judge also granted a gag order requested by the defense based on the media attention the case has received. The gag order prohibits council and those involved in the case from discussing it outside of court.
Another request granted by the judge involves putting a billing list under seal. The list details travel expenses and time lawyers spent on the case. Welch's lawyers are concerned if the list is made public, it would detail the defense's strategy and possible witnesses. The defense is concerned if the list is revealed Welch would not have a fair trial.
The judge also postponed his jury trial until October 18th. He was originally scheduled to go on trial in March.
Welch is charged with two counts of first degree felony murder. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.
The Lyon sisters disappeared from a Maryland shopping mall 40 years ago.