Judge dismisses murder charge against man, but issues warning

Another suspect in the case is set for trial next week.
By BOB JACKSON
VINDICATOR COURTHOUSE REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- As Judge Maureen A. Cronin signed the paperwork dismissing a murder charge against Calvin Moore, she issued him a word of warning.
"I caution you to be very careful when you get back out on those streets," the judge said. "You saw what happened to Eddie Bryant."
Moore, 30, was one of four men charged with murder in connection with the March shooting death of 29-year-old Stephen Shackleford at the Victory Annex housing complex.
Bryant was also one of those suspects and was acquitted by a jury after a trial in July. He was shot about a week later, though he survived. Police don't believe the shooting was related to his acquittal.
Another suspect, Lorice Moore, was found guilty in August and was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.
The fourth suspect, Armin Moore, is scheduled for trial next week in Judge Cronin's court.
Not enough evidence
Timothy Franken, chief assistant prosecutor, said authorities dropped the charge against Calvin Moore because they don't believe there's enough evidence right now to gain a conviction.
He said Moore could be indicted again if more evidence is found.
Defense attorney Douglas B. Taylor said prosecutors did the right thing in dropping the charge.
He said Calvin Moore was indicted solely on the word of an eyewitness whose credibility was questionable.
bjackson@vindy.com