Overview
- A six-member jury was seated and opening statements began this week, but court paused Monday when Pino became visibly emotional and was checked by paramedics.
- Prosecutors say Pino drove the boat at about 47 mph on the wrong side of the Cutter Bank channel, struck a steel channel marker and split the vessel, causing 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez to drown.
- The defense contends Pino suffered a concussion in the crash, was disoriented, tried to rescue Fernandez and did not act with criminal intent.
- Multiple teen passengers and the victim’s father gave emotional testimony about the crash, and several witnesses told jurors they drank alcohol on the boat with some testifying to numerous drinks and no life jackets being worn.
- The trial, expected to last roughly two weeks, will turn on witness credibility and expert evidence about speed, impairment and boat operation and could carry decades in prison if Pino is convicted.