Case against Vikings CB Chris Cook goes to jury

The domestic assault case against Minnesota Vikings cornerback Chris Cook has gone to the jury.

Jurors got the case just after 2 p.m. Wednesday after attorneys for both sides clashed over whether he assaulted his then-girlfriend last October. They deliberated for about 2 { hours before going home for the day.

Prosecutor Liz Cutter told the jury Cook tried to strangle Chantel Baker in a rage.

But defense lawyer John Lucas told jurors that Cook was simply defending himself against an angry young woman who had been drinking.

Baker has recanted statements she had to police alleging that Cook tried to choke her.

Hennepin County District Judge Robert Small told jurors that if they find Cook acted in self-defense and that his actions were reasonable, they must acquit him.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.