Arizona v. James Ray
Trial
03/01/11 – 03/21/11
Summary
Oprah Winfrey-endorsed motivational speaker and self help guru James Ray was tried on manslaughter charges, after three people died of heat stroke during a spiritual vision ceremony in a sauna-like tent called a sweat lodge.
the trial began with the prosecution playing audio recordings for the jury of a pep talk given by Ray to the victims just prior to the fatal "Spiritual Warrior" ceremony, where Mr. Ray encouraged participants to confront their own mortality by enduring extreme physical conditions.
To view a clip from the trial, visit the CVN News Blog."
Outcome
The jury found James Ray guilty of negligent homicide for Kirby Brown, Liz Neuman and James Shore
- Plaintiff
- Defense
- Judge
- Warren Darrow
- Jurisdiction
- Superior Court of Arizona in Yavapai County
- Court
- Yavapai County Superior Court
- Case Number
- V-1300-CR-201080049
- Industry
- Fitness, Criminal Case
- Practice Area
- Criminal Law
Sessions
Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in parts only. Available recordings do not represent the full proceeding.