Casino Arsenist Seeks New Trial

Jesse James Risha, a man convicted of aiding and abetting an attempted casino arson in July 2004 is asking for a retrial. Prosecutors says he tried to burn down the building that was storing 200 of his video poker machines because he was seeking more than $300,000 in insurancy before declaring bankruptcy for his makeshift casino operation.

According to the report, he says the government withheld information from a key witness against him, Frank Caito, who was paid to start the blaze in 1998.

James contends that information should have been available at trial so that the defense could impeach Frank Caito's credibility, said Mr. Risha's attorney, Charles Porter.

Both sides now have several weeks to submit additional filings to the court, and a ruling will follow to decide whether a 3rd trial will be awarded.

August 8, 2006
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com    Previous Page | Internet Gambling | Top Online Casinos | Submit News!