Neo Nazi John Ditullio trial and tattoos: Murder and Makeup (video)

How much does it cost to apply make up to a self-professed neo-Nazi ‘s tattoos to ensure he has a fair trial? How about $150.00 a day of tax payer’s money! In a strange twist to the murder case, a judge has agreed that in order for John Ditullio to have a fair trial, makeup should be applied each morning to cover up his multiple tattoos. (for more information on the case see back stories below)

The tattoos are on Ditullio’s face and neck, and consist of a barbed wire that runs down his face, a swastika on his neck, and a neo Nazi symbol on one side of his face. The tattoo that is receiving the most makeup coverage, however, is an expletive that monopolizes most of Ditullio’s left side of his neck. The tattoo reads “F___ You”

Ditullio’s defense attorney, Bjorn Brunvand, states that many of the tattoos were applied after the murders, and also believes that the expletive would cause great offense to the jury, therefore prejudicing them from the onset of the trial. Circuit Judge Michael Andrews agreed that all tattoos that were added after the murders would be covered. Two small tattoos will remain visible throughout the trial: a tear drop in the corner of one eye and a small cross under the other.

While pleading his case for his client regarding covering the tattoos, Bjorn Brunvand said that the American Nazi group with which John Ditullio belonged also wore uniforms, but that his client wouldn’t need to wear it in court.

The makeup artist will arrive at the courthouse one hour earlier each day to apply the makeup.
It will be interesting to see if this ruling will set the premise for future cases. How far can a defense attorney go to make their client look ‘less prejudicial’ to a jury?

Neo Nazi John Ditullio trial and tattoos: Murder and Makeup (video)