What about a case that's been dragged out so long that even the external public has fatigue
Members of the jury likely never heard of the case before. Although they are warned not to look at any media, it seems to be fairly common for them to Google the case anyway. Even if they will find many old articles, their level of awareness goes up if they see daily updates of the case as the trial progresses. So says the expert.
On a side point, regarding public fatigue, I understand the issue tremendously. I feel it tremendously, having been involved in it for more than 5 years. I wish this whole thing could just go away, as I have zero interest in being busy with it. But alas, it is not up to me, and as long as there is a case there, it is my duty to do everything I can to help out.
The defendant's family members are also tired out and fatigued, and they understand that public sentiment is like that also. But there is no getting around putting up a defense and paying big bucks for lawyers. They are really grateful to the public that despite the fatigue, there is still a tremendous outpouring of support. I heard firsthand how the support (both financially and in other ways) has given them so much chizuk. They have been living this for years, and they wish this was over already.
It honestly makes me mad. The state can just put in a fresh set of prosecutors and they have seemingly endless money, while the defendant has no choice but to keep pushing forward every day, raising the funds for a defense and living under constant stress.