Jerry Sandusky Denied Request to Cancel Evidentiary Hearing: Pursuit of Federal Appeal Continues
A judge has denied Jerry Sandusky's request to cancel an evidentiary hearing as he pursues his appeal to federal court. The hearing, scheduled for September 8, will proceed without any witnesses or evidence being presented. Ryan Rittmeyer, also known as Victim 10, will no longer discuss the recantation of his 2012 testimony alleging sexual abuse by Sandusky. The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General has deemed Rittmeyer's recantation as "highly suspect."
Sandusky, the former Penn State football coach, will participate in the hearing remotely for a colloquy to confirm his withdrawal of the claim on the advice of counsel. This change follows Sandusky's attorneys filing a motion to withdraw the recantation claim and waive the hearing to pursue relief in federal court. Sandusky expressed his loss of faith in state and county courts since his 2012 conviction and emphasized the need to have his case heard in federal court.
At 82 years old, Sandusky maintains his innocence and aims to have his case reviewed by federal judges who have not previously ruled on his appeals. Despite being convicted in 2012 on 45 counts related to the sexual abuse of 10 boys, Sandusky continues to seek a new trial. Ryan Rittmeyer, the individual who recanted his allegations against Sandusky, has not reversed his affidavit, as reported by the Post Journal.
In conclusion, the denial of Sandusky's request to cancel the evidentiary hearing signifies a continued legal battle as he seeks relief in federal court. The upcoming proceedings will focus on confirming Sandusky's withdrawal of the recantation claim, highlighting his persistent efforts to challenge his convictions and assert his innocence.