Trial begins for man charged with attempted aggravated murder, kidnapping

YOUNGSTOWN — The prosecution and defense laid out details in the case against a city man accused of kidnapping and terrorizing his former girlfriend.

Hester Howell Jr., 40, is charged with attempted murder, kidnapping, felonious assault and domestic violence after a July 2008 incident involving his then girlfriend.

He faces more than 30 years in prison if convicted and sentenced to the maximum time on each charge.

Natasha Frenchko, an assistant county prosecutor, and Atty. Jeff Limbian, representing Howell, presented their opening statements to jurors this afternoon.

For the complete story, see Wednesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com