Trial begins this week for the man accuses in the 2016 shooting spree in Kalamazoo. The state Legislature returns to session this week. The family of a Michigan man detained in Russia hopes to learn more this week.
Almost three years after a string of shootings left six people dead and two badly injured in Kalamazoo, the accused gunman is going to trial. Jury selection in the case against Jason Dalton is set to wrap up today with opening arguments tomorrow. Dalton made incriminating statements to the police after his arrest, but the Michigan Court of Appeals later ruled they could not be used at trial. The Kalamazoo Gazette reports that Dalton’s lawyer has dropped plans for an insanity defense. Kalamazoo County Prosecutor Jeff Getting says he’s prepared more than a hundred exhibits, and his office is very confident in their case.
(MPRN) State senators and representatives will officially return to Lansing this week. The Legislature’s 100th session begins on Wednesday. Republicans have controlled the state Legislature for years – and this session will be no different. But Democrats have picked up seats in both chambers. Plus a Democrat will now have the power of the veto pen with Governor Gretchen Whitmer in office. So far, all leaders in the House and Senate have said they’re willing to work with members of the opposite party.
(WCMU) A suit will continue to move forward against the state of Michigan over its involvement in implementing a computer program that falsely accused over 40,000 residents of fraud. The 6th circuit court of appeals last week rejected the state’s immunity arguments- saying officials oversaw the program and continued its use despite knowing of problems. Three contractors that helped implement the program are also included in the suit. Represetnatives with the new Attorney General’s office did not comment on whether they would try to have the decision appealed. Attorney Toney Paris, who represents plaintiffs in the case, says even without another appeal it will take months before the case moves forward.
(WDET) Family members of a Michigan Man jailed in Russia for alleged espionage say they have yet to hear specific details of the charges against him. The family of Paul Whelan believes Russian officials will provide more information this week. Whelan was arrested more than a week ago in Moscow where his family says he was attending a friend’s wedding. U.S. embassy officials found he was in good health and his family says he reached out for help from other countries where he holds passports including Canada Britain and Ireland.