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Serial Case: Closing Arguments Wrap In Syed Hearing

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Closing arguments wrap up in the hearing for Adnan Syed--the Baltimore County man now wanting a new trial after being convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend.

Questions about his guilt or innocence were raised in the hit podcast, "Serial."

Alex DeMetrick breaks down the closing arguments from both sides.

While millions heard the podcast about Syed's murder conviction, it's an audience of one he has to convince.

Adnan Syed's bid to be retried for the murder 16 years ago of his ex-girlfriend, Hae Min Lee, hinges on two arguments: that his attorney failed to use alibi witness Asia McClain, who says she was with Syed the day of the murder, and that a cell phone expert, who helped place Syed's phone where Lee was buried now says his findings were based on unreliable data.

Inside court, both defense and prosecution fought for and against those arguments.

The prosecution hitting hard on McClain's memory and motive. Questioning her ability might likely have kept Syed's 1999 lawyer from putting her on the stand.

"I think what's clear to the judge based on the record is that Asia McClain was not a weapon for the defense, she was a potential weakness," said Thiru Vignarajah, prosecutor.

The issues played out last year in the popular podcast Serial.

For Syed's family, the hearing has felt like a hopeful chance at a new trial and possible acquittal.

"It's the first time we are so excited after 17 years. We are hoping, feel good about this," said Shamim Rahman, Syed's mother.

"It's an emotional time for some. It's really not a time for finger-pointing. Hopefully we get Adnan free, and then after that we'll take whatever routes we have to take," said Saad Chaudry, friend.

The judge took the case under submission. He will later decide in writing if Syed should be retried for the murder or continue serving his life sentence.

The judge is under no deadline to produce a ruling in this case.

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