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Judge tosses out Basil verdict

WBFO News file photo from 'Pool photo'

A judge has tossed out the verdict in the Jeffrey Basil trial.  The defense called for a mistrial following Basil's conviction after learning a juror failed to disclose prior military service and a felony charge.

State Supreme Court Justice Penny Wolgang threw out the conviction against Basil in the death of National Guardsman William Sager, Jr.

The jury convicted Basil in January.  But then juror number 12 revealed on Facebook that she had  previous military service and was charged for past crime. That information was never revealed at jury selection. 

Basil was accused of pushing Sager down a flight of stairs at Molly's Pub on Main Street in the city's University District May 11, 2014.   Basil was the bar manager.

Defense Attorney Paul Cambria reacted to the judge's decision and what he expects for the second trial.

"I think the questioning was adequate in the first trial. Obliviously each and every single juror will be asked about military service," said Cambria "My guess is there will be some more specific questions this next time around."

No new trial date for Basil has been established.    

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