O.J. Simpson jury pool down to final 40 in Vegas

las vegas -- The O.J. Simpson armed robbery-kidnapping trial has taken a large step toward picking a jury in Las Vegas.

After four days, the pool of prospective jurors was narrowed to 40 finalists today.

From those, prosecutors and defense lawyers are expected to quickly seat 12 jurors and six alternates.

Judge Jackie Glass wants to begin opening statements Monday.

Most prospective jurors said they disagreed with Simpson's 1995 acquittal in the slaying of his ex-wife and her friend, but many said they can still fairly consider the Las Vegas case.

Simpson and co-defendant Clarence "C.J." Stewart have pleaded not guilty to kidnapping, armed robbery and other charges in a confrontation with two sports memorabilia dealers last year.