Judge declares mistrial in case of man charged in murders of Weymouth police sergeant, bystander
A judge on Monday declared a mistrial in the case of a man charged with murdering Weymouth Police Sergeant Michael Chesna and innocent bystander Vera Adams in July 2018.
BREAKING: Judge just declared mistrial in Emanuel Lopes case.
— Robert Goulston (@rgoulston) July 10, 2023
Testimony in this case wrapped up in late June and it then went to the jury last week, but there was no verdict before the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
One juror had a personal commitment, so they were excused, and an alternate was picked last week.
“When that happens you are to start your deliberations over,” the judge told the jury in court.
Deliberations went on for five days, but because the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict, a judge ruled that there must be a new trial with a new jury.
“Jurors, I’m in receipt of your note. Your service is complete. I’m declaring a mistrial,” the judge said.
Moments after the mistrial was declared, some of Chesna’s family members were heard gasping loudly and crying. Cindy Chesna was seen emotionally crying as she left the courtroom. Double murder suspect Emanuel Lopes sat back down and looked forward after the mistrial was declared.
Lopes is accused of using a rock to disarm Chesna, then killing the officer with his own gun. Adams was also shot and killed while sitting nearby on her sun porch.
Jurors in the Emanuel Lopes trial return to scene of death of Weymouth police officer, elderly woman
During the trial, Lopes’ lawyers don’t dispute their client fatally shot Chesna and Adams — but they say he has a long history of mental illness — including auditory hallucinations and incidents of self-harm.
There was a question of whether Lopes should be held criminally responsible because of mental health issues.
Sgt. Chesna’s father would only say it seemed like the defense got preferential treatment. “No justice,” said Chesna’s father. “It was all for Lopes and she did everything for Larry Tipton and not for us. I wish it could come out better.”
Weymouth Police Chief Richard Fuller and retired Chief Richard Grimes spoke briefly outside court. “We are extremely disappointed. No family should have to endure what this family is enduring right now,” said Chief Fuller “It’s just justice delayed. That’s all. Just a speed bump in the road,” said Grimes. “We are steadfast in our resolve to bring this case to justice,” said Chief Fuller. “We will get justice for Sgt. Chesna and Vera Adams.”
A new date for starting the trial all over has been set for July 21.
Family of @WeymouthPD Sgt Michael Chesna could be heard in the court reacting when the judge announced the mis-trial. It appears the DA will be re-trying the case. A new date for starting all over has been set for 7/21.
— Robert Goulston (@rgoulston) July 10, 2023
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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