ORLANDO, Fla.- Shellie Zimmerman, wife of George Zimmerman community watchman accused of killing Trayvon Martin, was charged with perjury today for lying to a judge about her husband's finances.
The 25-year old could face up to five years in prison and a fine of $5,000. She has been released on bond.
Later today , Zimmerman stated that he feared the safety of his wife after her mug shots had been made public. Shellie Zimmerman had maintained a secretive profile ever since the case broke in February. There were no pictures of her, nor had she made any court or public appearances. Even when she testified regarding the bond, she did so through a phone conference.
Zimmerman's lawyer, Mark O'Mara told ABC News, "Certainly now that she's been charged with a crime he's worried about her, and also worried now that she's out in the public eye...there are "legitimate safety concerns."
Last month, Zimmerman had his bond revoked by the Judge, after prosecutors proved that Zimmerman and his wife had misled the court and lied about their finances.Zimmerman's bond had been set to $ 150,000 bond after him and his wife testified to having limited financial capabilities. However, it was discovered that Zimmerman had possession of over $130, 000, which he had accommodated from his website, therealgeorgezimmerman.com, set up to help him with his legal expenses.
Zimmerman was charged for shooting Travyon Martin, while Zimmerman was on duty as watchman to a community gate in February of this year. He is being charged with second-degree murder. Zimmerman claims that he shot Martin in an act of self-defense.
