4/28/16
by News Department on 04/28/16Murder trial postponed...
One defendant in the August 2015 killing of a Pottsville businessman had his trial postponed Wednesday, while prosecutors announced they have appealed a judge’s decision to exclude some statements made, and evidence subsequently found, in the case against the other.
According to the Republican Herald, First Assistant District Attorney John T. Fegley said he and Deputy Assistant District Attorney Robert I. Lipkin have appealed the decision of Judge Jacqueline L. Russell to bar the use of some statements made by 19 year old Joshua M. Lukach, of Pottsville, during his interrogation by Pottsville police.
Lukach and 22 year old Shavinskin N. Thomas, of Pottsville, each are charged with first-degree murder.
Fegley said Thomas’ trial was continued until September.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for each man.
