Accused Cop Killer's Lawyers File For Change Of Venue
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Lawyers for accused Penn Hills cop Killer Ronald Robinson have filed for a change of venue.
Robinson had agreed to plead guilty to two life sentences for murdering officer Michael Crawshaw and one other person in exchange for the death penalty being taken off the table, but Crawshaw's family rejected that deal last week. The District Attorney is required to present the offer to the family of the victim.
Because of that news, Robinson's lawyers now claim the jury pool is tainted, and he can't get a fair trial. Jury members are already being selected for the trial.
Robinson is accused of shooting and killing Penn Hills Police Officer Michael Crawshaw in December of 2009. He has been in jail since his arrest.
Earlier this month, the jury selection process was delayed when Robinson was rushed to the hospital after being found unresponsive in his cell. The prosecutor told the judge that doctors reported whatever happened to Robinson was a "medical mystery" and he was given seizure medication.
They also said he was under the influence of marijuana, which is a contraband problem at the jail.
Robinson appeared to be having a seizure and was intubated because he couldn't breathe on his own.
In October, Robinson's trial was delayed when a key witness for the prosecution disappeared. Once U.S. Marshals found the witness, the presiding judge ordered him held in custody until trial.
So far, eight of the necessary 16 jurors and alternates have been selected.
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