Alternate juror in drug trial may be held in contempt
Guam - Anthony J. Ishmael may not have been part of deliberations for the Henry Fresnoza criminal trial, but he's accused of having improper communications with another juror who was. District Court Chief Judge Frances Tydingco Gatewood has ordered Ishmael to appear in court to show why he shouldn't be held in contempt of court.
According to an order to show cause filed with the District Court on Friday, Ishmael encountered another juror outside of deliberations and questioned her about the jury's deliberation status. It's also alleged that Ishmael told the juror that the defendant should be found not guilty on all counts. All jurors were ordered not to discuss the case with anyone outside of deliberations.
Ishmael appeared before the court on Thursday and was informed of the U.S. Attorney's Office intention to prosecute the case. He must now appear in court on November 15 to show why he should not be held in contempt of court.
Fresnoza was found guilty on Thursday afternoon on 7 of 12 drug related charges as he was part of his sister's drug trafficking ring.
