Defence wants deposition of key witness in Trayvon Martin case

SANFORD, Fla. - Defence attorneys for the former neighbourhood watch leader accused of fatally shooting Trayvon Martin are seeking to obtain a deposition from a witness who says she was on the phone with the teenager before he was killed.

George Zimmerman's lead attorney, Mark O'Mara, will present a motion to the judge on Friday asking to question the woman known as Witness 8.

Described as a friend of the 17-year-old Martin, she originally recounted the conversation she had with him to attorney Benjamin Crump in a recorded phone interview. Crump is representing Martin's parents.

O'Mara also wants a deposition from Crump regarding that interview. Crump has previously submitted an affidavit, citing a formal deposition could jeopardize attorney-client privilege.

Zimmerman has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder. Trial is set for June.