Murder Trial Will Have Two Juries In Court

Sonora, CA -- A motion to try two men facing murder charges in Calaveras County seperately has been denied, however there will be an unusual twist to the trial.

A visiting judge to the Superiour Court has ordered one trial to take place January 12th, but each defendant will get his own jury.

The attorney representing one of two men facing murder charges in the death of a Mokelumne Hill man says he is not happy with the descision.

Cyril Ash who represents 21-year-old Donald Pinon wanted his client tried separately from 20-year-old Daniel Rocha, in part because he said the two men have accused each other of shooting 19-year-old David Jessop in March.

Cheif Deputy District Attorney Seth Matthews says having two juries will save time by allowing witnesses to testify only once. Prosecutors say the gang-related shooting was a case of mistaken identity and Jessop's roommate was the intended target.

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