BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A murder trail commenced in Raleigh County Circuit Court on Tuesday only for proceedings to be cut short when a mistrial was declared.
The hearing in question pertained to Ronnie Cochran, who faces accusations of fatally shooting his son in 2019.
A mistrial was declared early on Tuesday as, during opening arguments, Judge Kirkpatrick took issue with a statement from the prosecution indicating Cochran’s intention to claim that the shooting was a result of self-defense.
This, said Judge Kirkpatrick, could potentially sway the jury before Cochran could make clear his decision regarding whether or not to testify himself.
As a result, a mistrial was declared. Raleigh County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Josh Thompson confirms that Cochran will see trial with a new lineup of jurors pending the establishment of a new hearing date and selection of jurors.
