Trial begins for former MPD officer Michael Mattioli, accused in death of Joel Acevedo

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The long-awaited trial of a former Milwaukee Police Department officer finally got underway Monday, Nov. 6. Michael Mattioli is accused of killing Joel Acevedo while off duty in 2020. The trial was pushed back multiple times due to various complications. 

It was a long and slow day at the Milwaukee County Courthouse Monday. A pool of 50 prospective jurors was reduced to 14, the majority of whom are women and Caucasian. 

The incident took place on April 19, 2020. Investigators say Mattioli told police that Acevedo stole from him and punched a friend of his. He also told police he held Acevedo down, around his neck until they came. 

"It's been a long three years waiting to finally get to the truth of what happened on April 19, 2020 and that process starts here today. And what Mr. Tiffin just told you is you know, largely correct. In terms of the fact that there really isn’t a whole lot of dispute about what happened," said Mattioli's defense attorney, Craig Powell. 

Jury selection took up the majority of day one of the trial, followed by brief opening statements from both parties. Mattioli's attorneys mentioned that Acevedo was doing cocaine the night of the party without Mattioli's knowledge. They also said Mattioli was not aware of a respiratory condition Acevedo had at the time.

Testimonies are expected to take place Tuesday, Nov. 7 for day two of the trial beginning at 9 a.m.