Spector trial jury reaches impasse

The judge in charge of the Phil Spector murder trial case has been told by the jury that they have been unable to make a clear decision and have reached a seven-to-five impasse after seven days of deliberations.

Judge Larry Paul Fidler held a hearing yesterday after being made aware that the panel was finding it difficult to reach a final verdict, and asked them if there was anything he could do to help before lawyers would have to get involved.

Although it has not been made clear which way the jury was leaning towards, Fidler has said that he hopes they will be able to come to a unanimous decision.

Music mogul Spector is on trial after being charged with the second degree murder of actress Lana Clarkson, who was found shot dead at his California home - but his lawyers insist that she shot herself.

The case, which began in April, will continue.