Victim Shows Up at Minnesota Beating Trial
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - The victim of a near-fatal beating in St. Paul last summer set off a legal skirmish when he showed up at the trial of one of the suspects.
Twenty-seven-year-old Ray Widstrand arrived Friday at the trial of a 17-year-old accused of taking part in his beating during an August street brawl.
Widstrand, who walked with a cane, arrived when the jury wasn't in the courtroom. He stepped out and did not return after a dispute arose over whether his presence jeopardized the defendant's right to a fair trial.
Defense attorney Christopher Zipko said he had "dramatic concerns" about Widstrand's presence.
Widstrand is still missing part of his skull.