WARREN, Ohio — A Trumbull County jury made quick work of a case involving a man who failed to report to his parole officers, delivering a unanimous guilty verdict in just five minutes. James Finlaw, 50, was found guilty after a one-day trial for not adhering to the conditions of his parole since late 2020.
The case was prosecuted by First Assistant Christopher Becker in the courtroom of Common Pleas Judge Sarah Kovoor, who will determine Finlaw’s sentencing after a background check is completed. Finlaw’s defense was provided by two public defenders.
According to the prosecutor’s office, Becker’s solitary witness, a parole officer, testified that Finlaw had been designated as an absconder for not reporting as required since December 2020. This swift jury decision has drawn attention, with Prosecutor Dennis Watkins noting it might set a record for rapid verdicts in Trumbull County.
Finlaw’s legal troubles began with a drunk driving arrest in 2018, leading to an 18-month prison sentence for a felony OVI conviction in 2019. This sentence also included a specification for being a repeat violent offender. After serving his time, he was placed on post-release control but did not comply with reporting obligations.
The rapid resolution of the trial highlights the court’s commitment to swiftly addressing cases that directly impact public safety and community trust. As Finlaw awaits sentencing, the quick verdict underscores the judiciary’s perspective on parole violations.
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