More security needed in Pinoy bar shooter trial, judge says

By Balitang America Staff, ABS-CBN North America Bureau

May 21, 2014

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Emotions are running high in Sandusky, Ohio over the case of Igmidio Mista, the undocumented Filipino man accused of shooting and killing an off-duty policeman and two others inside a bar.

That’s why a judge is beefing up security during the trial.

The judge plans to double the number of security guards and sheriff deputies at Mista’s upcoming court dates.

Wooden barricades to control courthouse traffic and metal detectors will also be in place.

Court administrators say public interest in Mista’s case is high and they expect a higher than usual turnout from the community.

Mista is charged with killing of three men, including an off-duty police officer who was celebrating his birthday, in a March 9 shooting rampage at the Last Call Bar in Fremont, Ohio.

Mista heads to trial on Aug. 4 and faces up to 75-years to life in prison.