Courtroom drama: Rachel Jeantel can't read letter

Defense attorney in George Zimmerman trial targets prosecution's key witness

SANFORD, Fla. – For two days, attorneys in the George Zimmerman trial questioned Rachel  Jeantel on Trayvon Martin's last minutes before he was shot dead Feb. 26, 2012. Her testimony lasted seven hours.

Jeantel, 19, is a student at Miami Norland Senior High School. Defense attorney Don West asked her to read a letter that she dictated to a friend.

"Are you able to read that at all?" West asked.

Jeantel bowed her head.

"Some but not all," she said. "I don't read cursive."

West continued to cross examine her in a combative tone. Jeantel responded in a defiant tone. Judge Nelson released her, but the subpoena was still effective Friday.