Murder trial of 76-year-old Lisbeth Garrett underway

The murder trial of Lisbeth Garrett started Thursday with opening statements.

Lisbeth, a former Eastwood High School teacher, was arrested in Feb. 2013 for allegedly killing her husband, Fort Bliss Army Maj. Chester Garrett back in 1977.

Prosecutors said Thursday Lisbeth and her son, Roger Garrett, beat and stabbed Chester in their East El Paso Home. Roger was Chester’s stepson.

The prosecution, who talked about Chester’s distinguished military career, also said Lisbeth had a choice — was she going to be a divorcee or a widow of a military officer?

Lisbeth’s defense team said the State only has a “theory” about who killed Chester.

“They are going to bring you lots of smoke and lots of mirrors,” the defense told the jury about the prosecution.

Lisbeth and Roger were arrested in Feb. 2013 when Lisbeth and Chester’s biological son, Patrick, broke his silence.

Roger was sentenced to 40 years in prison in October 2013 for his role in killing his stepfather.

He’ll be eligible for parole in 11 years.