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A Massachusetts court has released surveillance photos of ex-NFL star Aaron Hernandez — taken from the cameras in his own home — that appear to show him brandishing a handgun both before and after the murder of his friend, Odin Lloyd. Prosecutors had previously discussed the existence of these images, citing them as evidence when they charged Hernandez with Lloyd's murder back in June. But this is the first time the public has seen the footage, which could be a key piece of evidence when the case goes to trial, since the murder weapon was never actually recovered.

Local media outlets, including The Boston Globe, petitioned the court to release the photos and their request was granted this week. You can see more of the images on their website.

Police believe Lloyd was shot five times with a .45-caliber Glock pistol, which prosecutors say is the same type of gun Hernandez is holding in the photos. Police also found ammunition clips that would fit such a gun in Hernandez's car and condo.

Hernandez is being held without bail while prosecutors present their case to a grand jury. If the grand jury indicts him, the case will shift to Superior Court where the trial will begin later this year. The next hearing is set for August 22.

This article is from the archive of our partner The Wire.