The prosecution and defense have presented their closing
arguments in the rape trial of former sheriff’s Sgt. Michael
Rodrigues. Prosecutor Patrick Palacios is set to rebut Defense
attorney Art Cantu’s argument first thing in the morning before the
jury begins deliberations.
Editor’s note: Look back tonight for a story with details on today’s proceedings.
The defense and prosecution in the rape trial of former sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Rodrigues have nearly wrapped up closing arguments, with the jury set to deliberate Wednesday morning.
Deputy District Attorney Patrick Palacios spent the morning recounting testimony of the four women alleging rape. His closing statement focused on convincing jurors that Rodrigues followed a pattern with victims, and he opened the two-hour discussion by calling the suspect a “serial rapist.”
Defense attorney Art Cantu had the floor in the afternoon. His closing statement targeted the witnesses’ credibility and the investigation done by authorities. He particularly focused in some instances on dates and tried to show contradictions in the witnesses’ testimony.
Visiting Judge Alan Hedegard called for a recess until 8:30 a.m., when Palacios will have a chance at rebuttal.
Editor’s note: In an attempt to best portray the tenor of the Michael Rodrigues rape trial, the Free Lance is posting a series of videos on closing statements, which wrapped up this morning. In this first part, see the beginning of both prosecutor Patrick Palacios and defense attorney Art Cantu’s final arguments.
