The mother of murder defendant Chad Schaffer's two children, a key witness for the state, has started testifying at Schaffer 's trial in Norwich.

Candace Foster, 32, entered into witness protection and cooperated with police as they investigated the fatal beating of scientist Eugene Mallove. Foster, who allegedly went back to the crime scene with Schaffer and his cousin Mozzelle Brown on May 14, 2004, was also eventually charged with his murder. She is testifying with the hope of getting leniency in her own case.

Foster's mother and attorney are in court today. Her testimony will resume after the lunch break.