Appeal and writ of mandamus stalls Blue House trial

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Jury selection in the Blue House Lounge prostitution case against two police officers could begin any day now. The case in the trial court has been stalled as a writ of mandamus and now an appeal has been filed by Police Officer David Q. Manila. Manila argues that he and Police Officer Anthony Quenga's rights were violated because they did not receive a trial within 45 days.

The court however believes there are still a few more days remaining on the speedy trial clock.  An appeal was also filed over the court's third denial of manila's bail modification request.  Superior Court Judge Anita Sukola today put the parties on notice that once a decision is handed down, she will proceed immediately with pre-trial conference and call in prospective jurors as soon as a decision is handed down.

Attorney Sylvia Stake said, "Your Honor, I think we still have more days," to which the judge replied, "I know. But you know what, Ms. Stake? I'm not going to. I'm not the one delaying anything. I don't care how many days I do have. When a defendant insists on the assertion of their speedy trial, they're going to get it. And I'm not going to wait for the last day and then go up again. No, no, no, no. Be ready for Friday if the Supreme Court comes down."

Attorney Mark Smith withdrew from representing Song Ja Cha because he is related to one of the police officers. Julian Aguon was appointed to the case and will have to appear in court on July 1 to determine if has any conflicts with handling the case.