UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Ed Hill, a candidate for the Utica Common Council, has been found guilty of harassment in the second degree after he hit a poll worker on Election night.
It was a speedy trial: testimony was heard, a verdict rendered and the defendant sentenced, all within the space of about two hours Thursday afternoon.
Several witnesses took the stand and said that First Ward Utica Common Council Candidate Ed Hill had swung at opponent Frank Vescera, but that Vescera ducked and poll watcher Michael Colon took the shot to the face. Colon was among today's witnesses. Ed Hill himself took the stand and said he never hit anyone.
In the end, Utica City Court Judge Gerald Popeo believed the other witnesses, and found Ed Hill guilty of second degree harrassment- - a violation.
Judge Popeo sentenced Hill to 50 hours community service and imposed a $120 state surcharge.
"God is Ed Hill's judge period," said Hill following the verdict. Hill also said today's testimony was "orchestrated."
"I think it was the correct outcome and I think the judge stated it very well; in the heat of the political fight sometimes you go over ...over...out of the boundaries," said Vescera.
Hill's attorney says they might appeal the verdict, considering Hill's reputation and future in public life.
Posted by : JOLEEN FERRIS
Source : http://www.wktv.com/news/local/81580097.html
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