By: Jon Sarche, Associated Press Writer (AP) A federal judge said Wednesday he hopes to decide this week whether to unseal documents in the Kobe Bryant sexual assault case that could include statements from his accuser and witnesses about what happened in his hotel suite six weeks ago.
The documents have been sealed since Bryant was arrested last month, but media organizations have sought their release. Legal experts say the records could include details from witnesses who saw the Los Angeles Lakers star or his accuser, or heard sounds from Bryant's hotel room.
The material could also outline what evidence has been collected.
Eagle County Judge Frederick Gannett said he hopes to make his decision by Friday. He said if he does rule in favor of releasing the documents, an appeal will almost certainly keep them sealed pending a hearing.
Bryant, 24, is charged with sexually assaulting a 19-year-old employee of the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera on June 30. He has said the sex was consensual.
Bryant, who remains free on a $25,000 bond, is scheduled to return to Eagle for an Oct. 9 preliminary hearing, where Gannett will decide whether there is enough evidence for a trial.
Little is known about evidence in the case, though District Attorney Mark Hurlbert has said he believes he can prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Records are sealed and Gannett has issued a gag order on attorneys and investigators.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has conducted tests on evidence in the Bryant case. Deputy Director Pete Mang declined to discuss details, but he said evidence in rape cases generally includes fingerprints, hairs, fibers, DNA test results, and documents.
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