Trial in Ill. family’s brutal slaying to start

PEORIA — The trial for the first of two brothers charged in the brutal killings of a central Illinois family is slated to begin later in the day.

It’s been more than three year since five family members were found dead in their Beason home.

Christopher Harris and his brother, Jason Harris, have pleaded not guilty to murder in the September 2009 beating deaths of 46-year-old Raymond Gee, his 39-year-old wife, Ruth Gee, 16-year-old Justina Constant, 14-year-old Dillen Constant and 11-year-old Austin Gee. Three-year-old Tabitha Gee survived.

Christopher Harris is due in court Monday in Peoria. Jury selection could begin Tuesday. The trial could take about a week.

Harris’ brother, Jason, is also charged with more than 50 counts of murder in the case. His trial hasn’t been scheduled.