Man goes on trial in death of New Mexico deputy

Trial begins Monday for a man accused of killing a Bernalillo County deputy during a traffic stop east of Albuquerque four years ago.

Michael Paul Astorga could face the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder in the March 22, 2006, death of Deputy James McGrane.

New Mexico repealed the death penalty last year, but only for crimes that occurred after July 1, 2009.

Jury selection could take much of the week.

Authorities have said McGrane pulled over Astorga for a broken tail light. Investigators allege Astorga shot McGrane because the deputy knew Astorga was wanted in another slaying.

Astorga was taken into custody in Juarez, Mexico, about two weeks after the deputy's death.

Source: Associated Press, May 3, 2010