Pre-trial conference to be held for Blue House case

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Superior Court Judge Anita Sukola is expected to set the Blue House Lounge prostitution case for trial. The case was filed nearly five years ago and could go to trial next month. There were delays in the case due to two appeals that were filed by Song Ja Cha and Police Officer David Q. Manila.

Judge Sukola is currently in a jury trial but is looking to have the trial immediately after. Cha's attorney, Randy Cunliffe, has argued that the court cannot move forward with the charges contained in the third superceding indictment because the he believes the court didn't have jurisdiction to hear the return from the grand jury since his client at a pending appeal with the Guam Supreme Court.

Judge Sukola said she would rule on the matter on Monday during a pre-trial conference.

Cha, Manila and Anthony Quenga are accused of promoting prostitution at the Blue House Lounge.  Police Officer Mario Laxamana and two former Blue House workers have already signed plea agreements in the case.