I have to trust the Judge. He is neither capricious nor reactive, and I know that this is the way of trials-- some motions are allowed, some are denied. It just feels off that the Stste can't call a forensic pathologist to offer and expert witness in a murder/conspiracy to murder case.
The Judge upholds the integrity of the jury always.
Perhaps he was moved more by the power of appeal. If this ME's opinion is cumulative but also (unfairly) prejudicial, perhaps he hands the future appeal to the Defense. So he rules conservatively, confident the State can present its case and the jury can weigh what is allowed, determining from other witness testimony whether they believe JFd was murdered.
I don't like the ruling.
But I'm willing to place my faith in the jury.
JMO