Belmont County, OH – A double murder trial scheduled to begin next month in Belmont County has been delayed following a surprise request by the defense during a pretrial hearing Friday.
According to WTRF 7News, attorneys for Andrew Isaac Griffin, who is accused in the case, told the court they are no longer prepared to proceed with the trial date that had been set for March 2. Both the prosecution and defense had previously indicated they would be ready.
During Friday’s hearing, defense attorney Ashton Gaitonos said the request for additional time was “absolutely necessary,” citing the need to properly address expert testimony expected to be presented at trial.
Belmont County Common Pleas Court Judge Chris Berhalter granted the continuance but ordered the defense to submit a formal written motion within seven days. A new trial date has not yet been announced.
Prosecutor Kevin Flanagan expressed disappointment over the delay but acknowledged the defense’s obligation to its client.
“We will be ready whenever the trial is reset,” Flanagan said.
Earlier in the hearing, prosecutors called Belmont County Detective Jordan Blumling to the stand in an effort to have him recognized as an expert in cell phone service site analysis. Blumling testified about how investigators analyze cellular service data to determine where phone calls originate.
Judge Berhalter took the matter of whether Blumling will be formally accepted as an expert witness under advisement.
The case has drawn significant attention across Belmont County, with the latest delay adding to months of pretrial proceedings. Court officials are expected to provide further updates once the defense’s motion is filed and reviewed.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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