HONOLULU — A federal jury is considering whether a former Hawaii-based soldier is responsible for the death of his 5-year-old daughter.
If convicted in the federal murder trial, Naeem Williams could face the death penalty even though Hawaii abolished capital punishment nearly 60 years ago.
The jury began deliberations Wednesday after a trial that has lasted more than one month.
Williams faces five charges including murder, aiding murder, conspiracy, obstructing justice and making false statements.
Williams is being tried in the federal system because the crime allegedly took place at the family’s home at Wheeler Army Airfield.
The defense argues it’s unclear whether Williams — who testified he beat his daughter often out of frustration — caused an injury that directly led to her death.