January 15, 2008 19:03

REM man dismissed as potential juror

Michael Stipe's past could affect his judgment

REM frontman Michael Stipe was dismissed yesterday (January 14) as a potential juror in a trial in Athens, Georgia.

The trial involves a man accused of attempting to sexually assault a girl at a middle school.

Stipe told a Clarke County Superior Court Judge that he could not be a fair and impartial juror because he has been the target of death threats and stalkers himself, reports the Athens Banner-Herald.

In addition to Stipe, 15 other jurors were also dismissed from the case.

Meanwhile, REM are gearing up for the release of their new album 'Accelerate', as previously reported. The LP will be out on March 31 in Europe, and a day later in the States.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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