Quincy, Massachusetts – A Massachusetts jury is currently in its fourth day of deliberations in the retrial of Emanuel Lopes, who is facing murder charges for the killings of a police sergeant and a bystander in 2018. The second Norfolk Superior Court jury to consider the case has thus far been unable to reach a verdict, similar to the outcome of the first trial. The jury was denied a request for a mistrial by Judge Beverly Cannone on Wednesday and instructed to continue their deliberations.
In the retrial, both the prosecution and the defense presented their closing arguments on Thursday before the jury began its deliberations. If Lopes is found guilty, he could face a life sentence. The trial is a follow-up to the previous proceedings where a mistrial was declared last year due to the original jury’s inability to reach a unanimous decision after three weeks of testimony and deliberation.
During the trial, it was alleged that Lopes attacked Weymouth Police Sgt. Michael Chesna with a rock while being apprehended for erratic driving and vandalism. After struggling with Chesna, Lopes allegedly took the sergeant’s gun and shot him multiple times before proceeding to shoot 77-year-old Vera Adams, a bystander in her home’s sunroom. Lopes’ defense argued that his actions were influenced by his history of mental illness, suggesting the possibility of an insanity defense.
The first trial involved jurors visiting the crime scene, including the Queen Anne’s Gate Apartments where Lopes allegedly took his then girlfriend’s white BMW, the intersection where he reportedly crashed into another vehicle, and the location of the shootings at Burton Terrace. Witnesses also provided accounts of their encounters with Lopes on the day of the incident.
Lopes’ ex-girlfriend, Mary Cronin, testified during the trial and described their tumultuous relationship. She mentioned concerns about Lopes’ alleged infidelity and instability, as well as his struggles with homelessness. Cronin also confirmed that Lopes had expressed beliefs in conspiracy theories and exhibited worsening symptoms of mental illness leading up to the shootings.
As the jury continues to deliberate, the case raises complex questions surrounding the intersection of mental illness and criminal responsibility. If Lopes is found not guilty by reason of insanity, he could be committed to a mental health facility rather than serving a prison sentence. The trial reflects the profound impact of tragic events on the community and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the victims, Sgt. Chesna and Vera Adams.
Overall, the retrial of Emanuel Lopes in Massachusetts has entered its crucial deliberation phase as the jury wrestles with the determination of guilt or innocence in the killings of a police sergeant and a bystander. The outcome of this trial will have significant implications for both the defendant and the larger debate surrounding mental health in the criminal justice system.