George Zimmerman autograph: What would you pay?

George Zimmerman autograph: The latest fund-raising effort by George Zimmerman includes an thank-you note 'autographed' by George Zimmerman. Zimmerman is running low on funds for living and legal expenses.

 George Zimmerman plans to step up fund-raising to pay for his living and legal expenses while he awaits trial for fatally shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin.

The former neighborhood watch leader's attorney said Wednesday that Zimmerman plans to launch the New George Zimmerman Defense Fund next month.

Donors will receive "thank you" cards individually signed by Zimmerman, according to his fund-raising website.

The Orlando Sun-Sentinel reports:
"The money will go to pay Zimmerman's living expenses first, then for costs associated with the case and lastly to defense lawyers O'Mara and co-counsel Don West, who have not been paid, the site says.

The announcement reflects a shift in control of the fund. O'Mara ordered Zimmerman to surrender all defense funds to him in April then placed them in the hands of an independent manager. They now will be managed by someone picked by Zimmerman, according to the statement."

The Orlando Sun-Sentinel says that Zimmerman is without a job and living in hiding in Seminole County.

Attorney Mark O'Mara said an existing fund has raised $140,000 since last May, but the money it is running a bit low. In all, Zimmerman has raised about $340,000 since his arrest.

Zimmerman has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and claims the shooting was self-defense under the state's "stand your ground" law.

A trial is set for June, but a "stand your ground hearing" could be held by April.

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Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.