To no surprise, former Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez pleaded not guilty to all charges related to the murder of Odin Lloyd.
Hernandez delivered the words personally, with far less conviction and panache than O.J. Simpson, who declared himself to be “absolutely, 100 percent not guilty” in the murders of his ex-wife and her friend, Ronald Goldman. Hernandez spoke softly and at times shifted his eyes will repeatedly reciting the same two words in response to the six charges that formally were entered against him.
His lawyers will at a later date attempt to revisit the issue of bail. Hernandez has been held without bail since his arrest in late June.
Hernandez is due in court again on October 9. He could seek bail at that time.
Friday’s hearing also addressed requests by the defense to ensure that authorities in other jurisdictions (such as Connecticut) will preserve all evidence and to prevent the prosecution and others in law enforcement from disclosing information or evidence to the media.