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Capital murder trial of MMA fighter Cedric Marks kicks off in Belton

Cedric Marks
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BELTON, Texas – Monday was Day 1 of the double murder trial of Cedric Marks, an MMA fighter accused of killing his ex-girlfriend Jenna Scott and her male friend Michael Swearingin in 2019.

Police say the Temple man disposed of both of their remains in Oklahoma.

Marks pleaded not guilty, leading to opening statements.

Swearingin's mother testified her son wanted to purchase a gun and security system for their home after being threatened by Marks.

A second witness, the mother of Jenna Scott, said her daughter was abused by Marks and that he even broke into their home. She said her daughter felt like she was being stalked by Marks after they had broken up.

Marks had a chance to cross examine each of the victims' mothers, attempting to poke holes in their stories, saying they had no proof of what they were saying he did.

At one point, Jenna Scott’s mother became emotional and even confrontational when responding to Marks’ questions.

25 News will continue to provide updates as the trial continues.