Jury Convicts Lawrence Resident of Reckless Aggravated Battery

Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson announces that today in the Division Two courtroom a jury convicted Lawrence resident Ritchie L. Moore, 49, of reckless aggravated battery. 

The criminal case stems from Mr. Moore’s January 3 attack on a fellow inmate at the Douglas County Jail.  The victim exited his cell and was unaware that Mr. Moore was waiting just outside his door.  Mr. Moore repeatedly punched the victim in face.  The attack left the victim with two broken facial bones.

Mr. Moore took the stand during his trial and claimed his actions were in self-defense.  The jury did not accept that version of the event.

Mr. Moore’s jury trial began on Monday, August 3.  A jury was selected and opening arguments were delivered Monday afternoon.  Closing arguments were delivered today beginning at 1:30 p.m. and the case went to the jury at approximately 3:00 p.m.  The jury deliberated for about an hour before returning its verdict.

Mr. Moore faces a range of 7 to 23 months imprisonment for the conviction.  His actual sentence is dependent on his prior criminal history.  Sentencing was scheduled for August 19 at 3:30 p.m.

The Honorable Sally D. Pokorny presided over the trial.  The case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the trial was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Eve Kemple.

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