|
|
McCowen appeal denied
Banner Daily Update Sat. Apr. 5
By Kevin Mullaney
Banner Correspondent
Barnstable Superior Court Judge Gary A. Nickerson has rejected a motion for a new trial for convicted murderer Christopher McCowen based upon allegations of racial bias amongst jurors. McCowen was convicted in 2006 of beating and stabbing fashion writer Christa Worthington to death in her Truro home in 2002.
Nickerson’s ruling, announced Friday, follows his recall of the entire jury for questioning after several jurors contacted defense attorney Robert George shortly after the trial to complain of racial remarks by other jurors. Nickerson presided over the trial.
Judge Nickerson questioned all 12 jurors over two days in early January. In two subsequent hearings, he heard from the defense’s expert witness on racism in juries, then closing arguments from both Atty. George and District Attorney Michael O’Keefe. George has vowed to appeal the ruling to the State Supreme Court.
A decision is still pending by Judge Nickerson on another defense motion requesting a new trial, alleging that the prosecution withheld evidence, including the arrest records of prosecution witnesses.
|
Town Meeting gets a trashy start
Sexual harassment complaint filed against selectman
Proposed noise bylaw pulled from Town Meeting
Road closed to protect toads
Fado for all
Hindu mired in business dispute
Rabies clinics this weekend
|
|
|
|
|
Apr 3rd, 2008