Judge Denies Mistrial In Arrasmith Trial Ruling: Defense Lawyers’ Statements Haven’t Prevented Fair Hearing

A judge Thursday denied a prosecution motion for a mistrial in the trial of Kenneth Arrasmith, charged with fatally shooting a couple he believed had been sexually abusing his daughter.

Prosecutors contended defense lawyers had violated 2nd District Judge Ida Leggett’s pre-trial ruling that made statements about the past of shooting victims Ronald and Luella Bingham inadmissable.

Statements by defense lawyers Roy and Craig Mosman during the first three days of the trial have prevented a fair hearing of the case, prosecutors said.

Leggett disagreed, saying none of the statements was sufficient to justify a mistrial.

Arrasmith faces two counts of first-degree murder and could face the death penalty if convicted.

The Binghams, of Clarkston, Wash., were shot multiple times with two guns May 17 at an auto repair shop in East Lewiston. Arrasmith contends the couple had drugged and sexually assaulted his daughter, Cynthia Arrasmith.

In pre-trial hearings, defense lawyers argued that the jury must hear the Binghams’ alleged history of sexually abusing young girls and making threats against Arrasmith and his family.

Leggett disagreed, ruling that the defense had failed to present evidence that Kenneth Arrasmith believed he or anyone else was in imminent danger from the Binghams.

Testimony continued after Leggett’s denial of the mistrial motion Thursday, with law-enforcement officers called by the prosecution taking the stand.

The trial began Tuesday and is scheduled to resume Monday after a recess today for observance of Veterans Day. The trial is expected to last two to three weeks.

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