Most Popular Videos Featured On KDKA.com
Jul 9, 2009 12:32 pm US/Eastern
Sources: Judge In Oral Surgeon's Trial Threatened
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―
-
-
Dr. Robert Boyda faced charges of indecent assault, corruption of minors and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse.
KDKA
A controversial ruling handed down on Wednesday acquitted a local oral surgeon accused in the sexual assault of some of his patients.
The Dr. Robert Boyda case ended Wednesday afternoon with a not guilty verdict.
Now, sources say the judge in the case, Judge Anthony Mariani, may have become the target of a possible death threat.
Sources tell KDKA that shortly after Judge Mariani rendered the not guilty verdict in the trial against Dr. Boyda the reported call was made.
According to Boyda's attorney, William Difenderfer, as well as to sources speaking to KDKA Investigator Marty Griffin, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Department saw the threats as credible.
As a precaution, authorities say the judge was escorted out when he left the courthouse on Wednesday and on his way home.
Additionally, officials say a deputy was stationed at his residence.
This is reportedly not the first time the judge has received communications implying a threat.
In May, officials say Judge Mariani received a letter from "an unspecified group" of alleged former colleagues of Boyda from Northwestern Dental School.
Officials say the letter assailed Boyda's character and included the following passage: "If he is found anything other than guilty, our problem will not be with Dr. Boyda Jr., but rather with you."
It reportedly goes on to say, "We are all watching and awaiting your decision. If it is as it should be, we will have no further contact. If not, well, enough for now."
The Allegheny County Sheriff's Department declined any comment on the alleged threat and Judge Mariani was unavailable for comment.
Stay with KDKA for the latest details.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Latest 5-Day Forecast
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Reporting
Comments