The attorney for a robbery defendant on trial in Westmoreland County yesterday claimed that the only reason the victim identified the man was because he is black. However, prosecutors have his confession, a link to him based on a cell phone call made from the victim’s phone, and other evidence.
Opening statements were made yesterday in the trial of 30-year-old Norman Jack of Scottdale, who is accused of robbing a Blairsville woman in November of 2016. He is charged with felony robbery and prohibited possession of a firearm without a license, along with misdemeanor terroristic threats, simple assault, and theft.
Jack is accused of pulling alongside the woman’s vehicle as she sat in the Greengate East Plaza, pointing a gun at her, and stealing her wallet and purse. Police said he also crashed into her car as he fled.
Jack’s attorney said the woman only identified him during a preliminary hearing because he was the only black person in the room, and that he has an alibi, corroborated by his wife. However, police say he had asked to use the victim’s cell phone to call his wife, and they have those records. He was arrested and confessed a few days later in New Stanton.
The trial is being held before Westmoreland County Judge Meagan Bilik-DeFazio. Testimony will begin today.
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