SEPARATE killers were responsible for two murders committed 14 years apart, and neither of the perpetrators was Stephen Roy Standage, the Hobart Supreme Court heard this afternoon.
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In her opening address, defence lawyer Tamara Jago, SC, said the association between Mr Standage and both of the victims ``blinded'' those investigating the crimes.
Ms Jago said the defence would argue it could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt the accused killed Ronald Frederick Jarvis, 37, at Nugent in July 1992 or John Lewis Thorn, 59, at Lake Leake in August 2006.
The court heard while Mr Standage knew both deceased men, he was not involved in their deaths.
Ms Jago said the defence counsel disputed the ``vast majority'' of information and evidence to be presented in the trial, and reliability would be central to their case.
Ms Jago urged jurors to keep an open mind as they critique, analyse and assess evidence.
Earlier, Crown prosecutor Darryl Coates, SC, finished outlining the prosecution's case.
Mr Coates said the accused was ``intricately involved'' with both crimes.
The Crown said whether the cases were looked at together or separately, it was clear Mr Standage committed both.
``The only rational explanation is that the accused committed both offences,'' Mr Coates said.
A full report of the opening statements will be published in tomorrow's Examiner.
The trial continues on Monday.
