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ATLANTA — A six-member jury has begun deliberations in the misdemeanor battery trial of Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall.

Marshall is charged with two counts of simple battery stemming from a March 2008 argument with then-girlfriend Rasheedah Watley at the downtown Atlanta condominium the couple shared.

Testimony in the two-day trial concluded Friday, followed by closing arguments.

Defense attorney Harvey Steinberg characterized Watley as a liar with a violent temper who didn't want to give up the way of life to which she had become accustomed.

Prosecutor Jamie Mack said Marshall exerted control through force and financial dependence.

Marshall was suspended for last year's season opener after a series of domestic disputes.

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August 14, 2009 03:26 PM EDT

Copyright 2009, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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