Meth case could return to trial
Prosecutors are considering whether to refile drug charges against a former police officer accused of promoting methamphetamine after the trial came to an abrupt end just hours after it began.
Circuit Court Judge Steve Alm declared a mistrial Wednesday in the case of Rogelio Mata and his landlord, Estela McGovern, after jurors overheard a police officer discussing McGovern outside the courtroom.
The officer apparently approached the court bailiff as the jurors were being escorted into the courtroom and asked to serve an outstanding temporary restraining order against McGovern, according to prosecutors and McGovern's attorney.
Ten of the 13 jurors apparently overheard the officer's statements concerning Mc- Govern.
Alm noted that at minimum, the officer's actions were "reckless" but did not warrant a permanent dismissal, so he dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning the state can bring it back, said Deputy Prosecutor Joely Chung.
Alm released Mata, who has been in custody since his arrest in November.
During opening statements, deputy public defender Ronette Kawakami said Mata was at a Kalihi home visiting his girlfriend when police raided the home.