The Supreme Court trial of a Smith's man accused of obtaining $129,400 with intent to defraud, got underway yesterday with the selection of a seven-woman five-man jury.

It is alleged that Jonathan L. Ratteray, 20, of Sears Hill Road, persuaded Ernest (Barry) DeCouto to give him the money through a series of cheques for a supposed overseas emergency he had.

Ratteray pleaded not guilty to 20 counts relating to the charges.

The Crown, represented by Robert Welling, alleged it happened between September 2005 and January 2006.

Ratteray is being defended by lawyer Victoria Pearman.

The trial is due to continue this morning.