By Trend News Line 2024-05-24 19:45:02.
Request for New Trial
In a recent development, Antonio “A.J.” Armstrong Jr.’s attorney is seeking a hearing to determine if his capital murder conviction was influenced by the work of a DNA analyst who was fired for incompetence. Armstrong, who was found guilty by a Harris County jury last August and sentenced to life in prison, is now pushing for a new trial after two previous trials ended with hung juries.
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Concerns Over Analyst’s Work
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has raised concerns about the role of DNA analyst Rochelle Austen, who was terminated for her “inability to produce quality work” and “lack of attention to detail.” Armstrong’s attorney, Patrick McCann, has requested the case be sent back to the 178th District Court for a hearing to determine if a new trial is warranted.
Defense Team’s Perspective
McCann argues that information about Austen could have been critical to decisions made by the defense team during the trial. He questions whether this information was deliberately withheld until after the trial and emphasizes the importance of ensuring Armstrong’s right to a fair trial.
Background of the Case
Armstrong was just 16 years old when his parents, Dawn and Antonio Armstrong Sr., were tragically shot to death in their Bellaire-area townhome in 2016. He was convicted of shooting them with his father’s pistol and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 40 years.
Controversial Testimony
During the trial, Crime scene investigator Celestina Rossi presented new evidence that was not part of the previous trials. McCann has questioned the credibility of Rossi’s testimony and raised concerns about potential cross-contaminated DNA samples.
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Concerns About DNA Evidence
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office highlighted instances where Austen did not follow protocols, including switching male DNA samples and processing the wrong sample. These revelations have raised doubts about the accuracy of the DNA evidence presented in Armstrong’s trial.
Legal Action
While the jury deliberated in the most recent trial, Armstrong filed a federal lawsuit against the City of Houston, alleging that the Houston Police Department planted DNA evidence. The lawsuit was ultimately dismissed in December.
Seeking Justice
McCann continues to fight for Armstrong’s right to a fair trial and is determined to uncover any potential discrepancies in the handling of evidence in the case. The request for a new trial underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure justice is served in this complex and tragic case..
role fired DNA analyst played capital murder conviction Houston Public Media.
