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Judge Sets May 18 Retrial in Bryan Pata Killing Case After Hung Jury

Jurors cited weak, largely circumstantial evidence in the 2006 slaying as the reason they could not reach a verdict.

Overview

  • Miami-Dade Judge Cristina Miranda declared a mistrial on March 2 after a six-person jury deadlocked in the case against former Miami player Rashaun Jones.
  • The court scheduled a new trial for May 18 and reduced Jones' bond from $850,000 to $500,000, though his attorney says he still cannot post it.
  • Jones again rejected the prospect of a plea deal, having previously turned down a 15-year offer with time served, and he faces up to life in prison if convicted.
  • Jurors who spoke to ESPN said prosecutors failed to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, pointing to no recovered weapon, contested eyewitness identification, cell-tower limits, and credibility concerns with the lead detective.
  • Prosecutors built their case on prior disputes and cell records tying Jones near the area; Jones was arrested in August 2021 for the Nov. 7, 2006 shooting of teammate Bryan Pata.