By Charlie Brennan, Rocky Mountain News
December 17, 2003

A lawyer for 11 news organizations will object if prosecutors in the Kobe Bryant case try to close a hearing addressing the most hotly contested issue in the case.

Denver attorney Tom Kelley filed a motion Tuesday asking to be heard on any request to exclude the public and press from Friday's motions hearing in the Los Angeles Laker star's sexual assault case.

In fact, one such request is already on the table.

An attorney for the alleged victim filed a motion Dec. 6 asking that any legal arguments concerning the admissibility of the 19-year-old woman's medical records and history take place in private.

Lawyers for Bryant have subpoenaed her medical records and claim evidence concerning her two alleged suicide attempts, one Feb. 23 and a second on May 30, will show the woman has a history of dramatic attempts to capture the attention of an ex-boyfriend.

Her allegations against Bryant, according to the athlete's lawyers, are part of that same pattern of behavior.

The media's request to be heard on that issue was filed by Kelley, who specializes in First Amendment issues.

Kelley requested that, should there be discussion Friday on the alleged victim's bid to close portions of the hearing related to her medical history, media lawyers be permitted to participate from Denver by telephone.

So far, no party in the case has asked that Friday's hearing be closed in its entirety.

Bryant, 25, is free on $25,000 bond. His trial, predicted to last two to three weeks, is expected to start no sooner than late spring or early summer.

Bryant has admitted to committing adultery June 30 with his alleged victim at the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera in Edwards, but claimed their contact was consensual.

The sexual assault charge Bryant faces is a class-three felony, which could earn a sentence of four years to life in prison upon conviction.

Brennanc@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-892-2742

Copyright 2003, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.