“Jury Weighs Intent in High-Stakes Re-Trial of Veteran Accused of Christmas Day Barricade Shooting”

WEST CHESTER, Pa. — The fate of Nathaniel Lewis hinges on the jury’s evaluation of his intentions during a standoff at his northern Chester County home in December 2018. Lewis, who allegedly barricaded himself inside the residence and fired nearly 40 rounds at police officers outside, is on trial for serious charges that include assault on a police officer. During the trial, which commenced this week in Common Pleas Court, prosecutors assert that Lewis’ actions demonstrate a clear intent to harm. Chief Deputy District Attorney Michelle Frei argued that the specific choice to load an … Read more

Jury Selection Complete in Controversial Case Against Former Pennsylvania Officer Charged with Fatal Shooting

BEAVER FALLS, Pa. — A jury has been selected for the trial of a former police officer in Pennsylvania charged in connection with a man’s death. The case involves ex-officer David T. Kauffman, who is accused of shooting Robert A. Banister Jr. in 2022 while off duty. The selection process to form a jury comprised of seven men and seven women concluded recently. The trial will begin with opening statements following a set of jury instructions. Kauffman stands charged with homicide, aggravated assault, and other related offenses. The incident that led to the charges began … Read more

Family of Autistic Teen Victor Perez Sues Idaho Police, Alleges Violations of Disability Rights After Deadly Shooting

Pocatello, Idaho — The family of Victor Perez, a 17-year-old with autism who was fatally shot by police earlier this year, has filed a lawsuit against the Pocatello Police Department. Their claims center on allegations that officers failed to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) during the interaction that led to Perez’s death. On April 5, 2023, officers responded to a call from a neighbor who reported a violent situation involving Perez, who was holding a knife. Despite previous encounters with law enforcement regarding Perez’s behavioral challenges and documented disabilities, officers arrived with … Read more

63-Year-Old Mexican National Convicted of Murder after Decades-Long Flight from Justice in Ohio Shooting

HAMILTON, Ohio — A jury found Antonio Riano, a 63-year-old Mexican national, guilty of murder on Friday for the 2004 shooting death of Benjamin Becarra. The jury’s decision came less than two hours after deliberations began. Riano, who has been indicted since December 2004, is facing a sentence ranging from 18 years to life in prison, which will include an additional three years for a firearm specification. Sentencing is scheduled for July 14. During closing arguments, the defense sought to have the jury consider a verdict of voluntary manslaughter. However, Butler County Judge Michael Oster … Read more