Let's see how Waterfront explosion suspect fares after ignoring his defense attorney's suggestion

 

Waterfront explosion suspect Darin Vitolo insisted on having his preliminary hearing proceed today. We will know

This despite the fact that Deputy District Luke Bernthal gave a supplemental report to Deputy Public Defender David Celli this morning.

Mr. Celli had another preliminary hearing before Vitolo's. He told Vitolo he would have very little time to look at this report and asked him, "are you sure?" and suggesting a continuance.

Over defense objection, EPD Park and Waterfront Ranger Dennis Gagnon was designated as an expert in explosives and narcotics for today's hearing by Judge Lawrence Killoran.

Vitolo is in court. He is sitting silently, listening to Ranger Gagnon. The way the camera is set up, you cannot see anyone close up, so if Vitolo is reacting, it is hard to tell.

Ranger Gagnon testified Vitolo told him that he purchased materials from an online vendor. Vitolo said he would set off devices, usually at night and one per day. 

On January 9, Vitolo claimed an explosive device wrapped in brown twine was set off by another person but he was present for the explosion. This was inconsistent with what was found at the site.

Vitolo was held to answer on all charges. I have not  The 17 (b) defense motion for Count 1 was denied.

Arraignment on information is February 9 at 8:30.

Both Mr. Celli and Mr. Bernthal presented their cases well and made good arguments. With Vitolo's criminal history, which includes prior convictions and probation violations and standard required for preliminary hearing, today's outcome was a no brainer.

Besides, his recent arrest, Vitolo had four other cases on calendar.

Previous posts:

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2021/01/arrest-made-in-waterfront-explosions.html?m=1

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/07/two-days-of-epd-press-releases.html?m=1