Opening statements to begin for Banning couple accused in beating death of 2-year-old

RIVERSIDE - Opening statements are scheduled today in the trial of a Banning couple accused in the beating death of the woman's 2-year-old son.

Andrew Lee Payne, 24, could face 25 years to life in prison and Davia Damanique James, 23, could face 15 years to life behind bars if convicted in the death of the youngster, identified in court documents as John Doe.

The child died from severe head trauma last Nov. 11.

Payne and James have separate juries because different witnesses will be called to testify against each defendant.

Payne is charged with second-degree murder, assault on a child resulti...