Guam

Guam Caregiver Convicted in High-Profile Abuse Case Involving Autistic Woman

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Hagåtña, Guam – After just 15 minutes of deliberation, a jury convicted Peter Vonschimpf on charges of attempted fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct and abuse of an incompetent person, both misdemeanors, according to the Attorney General of Guam’s office. Vonschimpf was acquitted of the more severe charges of attempted third-degree criminal sexual conduct as a second-degree felony, along with a misdemeanor charge of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. The trial revolved around Vonschimpf’s actions concerning a non-verbal 25-year-old woman with autism who was under his care. Prosecutors presented a disturbing scene described by the victim’s mother, who … Read more

Guam Supreme Court Upholds Grand Jury Subpoena Powers in Landmark Rulings

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HAGATNA, Guam — The Supreme Court of Guam recently affirmed the authority of grand juries to issue subpoenas, a key tool in ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure transparency within government dealings. This decision comes from the highest court’s ruling on two separate cases where challenges were made against the subpoenas issued by the Superior Court of Guam. The rulings, which delve into the substantial reach of grand jury powers in the U.S. territory, highlight the legal standards applicable when officials or entities are asked to provide documentation relevant to investigations. The specifics of … Read more