There was no testimony Wednesday in the Nixzmary Brown murder trial. Instead, the judge made a ruling on the testimony of a secret witness for the defense.

Judge Priscilla Hall ruled that the court will release redacted transcripts of testimony from the secret defense witness, expected to testify sometime next week. Hall previously ruled in a closed door session that the witness' testimony would be given behind closed doors and away from public and media scrutiny out of fear for the witness' safety.

Published reports speculate that the secret witness is a prisoner who will testify that the girl's mother, Nixzaliz Santiago, admitted to delivering the fatal blow to Nixzmary. The defense's primary argument is that Santiago, not Cesar Rodgriguez, murdered Nixzmary two years ago.

Earlier Wednesday, one of Santiago's long-time attorneys resigned from the case, citing communication problems with his client.

Rodriguez is charged with beating his 7-year-old stepdaughter to death. If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in prison.

Defense doctor claims Nixzmary died of brain injury