George Zimmerman (C) leaves the courtroom after his hearing at the Seminole County Courthouse on October 19, 2012 in Sanford, Florida. Circuit Judge Debra Nelson ruled that Zimmerman's attorneys can access the school records of Trayvon Martin, with whom Zimmerman is charged of fatally shooting. (Photo by Stephen M. Dowell-Pool/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — George Zimmerman plans to step up fundraising to pay for his expenses while he awaits trial for fatally shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin.
The former neighborhood watch leader’s attorney said Wednesday that Zimmerman plans to launch the New George Zimmerman Defense Fund next month.
Donors will receive “thank you” cards individually signed by Zimmerman.
Attorney Mark O’Mara said an existing fund has raised $140,000 since last May, but the money it is running a bit low.
Zimmerman has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and claims the shooting was self-defense under the state’s “stand your ground” law.
A trial is set for June, but a “stand your ground hearing” could be held by April.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
