ZIMOMRA CASE Officer's attorney fears bias from coverage by the press
Sgt. James Zimomra is accused of assaulting two people during an arrest.
By PEGGY SINKOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- An attorney wants to know if prospective jurors have formed opinions in the case of a Newton Falls police officer.
Gregory S. Robey filed a motion in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court asking Judge W. Wyatt McKay for a hearing to determine if he can submit a jury questionnaire.
Sgt. James Zimomra pleaded innocent last month to two charges of felonious assault and one charge of misdemeanor assault.
Robey's motion also asks that he be allowed to address public knowledge of the case during jury selection. If the questionnaire and jury selection demonstrates that a fair trial cannot be conducted here, Robey wants the case to be moved.
Robey contends press coverage of the case may inhibit Zimomra's ability to get a fair and impartial jury.
Atty. Chris Becker, an assistant Trumbull County prosecutor, opposes Robey's motion, stating both sides should try to seat a jury before deciding if the trial should be moved.
Assault charges
Zimomra is accused of assaulting Connie Casseday, 22, and John Lusher, 23, both of Garrettsville, during their arrest April 2.
On a videotape recorded by a camera in another officer's cruiser, Zimomra can be seen hitting Casseday. She received seven stitches.
The other felonious assault charge deals with Lusher. Officials said Zimomra is accused of hitting the man with his cruiser.
Atty. Richard Schwartz, Newton Falls law director, said that since Zimomra was indicted on a crime of violence, he cannot carry a gun.
Police Chief Robert Carlson said Zimomra, who is free on a $25,000 bond, is working as an administrative aide. He said Zimomra will continue to get his regular $15-an-hour pay to answer telephones and do paperwork.
sinkovich@vindy.com