Judge tosses case against supermarket magnate
From the Associated Press:
LOS ANGELES - A federal judge in Los Angeles has tossed out the remaining guilty verdicts against the founder of a Southern California grocery chain because of evidence that may have exonerated him.
U.S. District Judge Stephen V. Wilson threw out 50 guilty verdicts that included mail fraud and bribery against George Torres, who founded Numero Uno markets. Wilson had earlier dismissed more serious convictions of racketeering and conspiracy.
A new trial will be held on the lesser counts.
Torres was convicted in April. Prosecutors say he ordered the killing of rivals, bribed public officials and hired illegal immigrants to bolster and protect his business.
Messages left for Torres' attorney, Steven Madison, a Pasadena City Councilman, were not immediately returned Monday.
CONTRIBUTORS
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| Frank Girardot, Metro Editor for the San Gabriel Valley Newspapers, brings you behind the yellow tape with takes on true crime, cold cases and more. This is also your forum to discuss crime, its impact on your neighborhood and how we cover it. Have any questions or tips? You can leave a comment here or e-mail Frank. |
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Brian Day is the crime reporter for the San Gabriel Valley Newspaper group. E-mail Brian. |
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