Breaking News of the Day: Zimmerman Granted Bail

George Zimmerman has been granted bond -- set at $150,000 -- in the February 26 shooting death of Trayvon Martin. Circuit Judge Kenneth Lester set several conditions for Zimmerman's release, including a curfew, but said further details need to be worked out between Zimmerman's attorney and law enforcement. Zimmerman will not be released today.

Zimmerman's family asked the judge this morning to grant bail while he awaits trial. Family members -- testifying by phone because they say they have been threatened -- argued that Zimmerman is neither a flight risk nor a threat to the community.

"He is absolutely not a violent person," said his wife, Shellie Zimmerman.

Defense attorney Mark O'Mara would prefer that Zimmerman be allowed to leave the area because of concerns about his safety. "Normally, the conditions are that you stay local. I think that is going to be difficult," he said. "I think nobody would deny the fact that if George Zimmerman were walking down the street today, he would be at risk. That is a reality."

George Zimmerman took the stand to make a statement.

"I wanted to say I am sorry for the loss of your son. I did not know how old he was, I thought he was a little bit younger than I am and I did not know if he was armed or not."

[lat / globeandmail]