Knox County courts held two separate jury trials this week, with different outcomes.
In Knox Superior Court One, a jury convicted Frederick Kitchell of Vincennes of theft and battery with a deadly weapon, both as Level 5 felonies. Jurors also found him to be a habitual offender. Deputy Prosecutor Brian Lucchi presented the case for the state.
In Knox Circuit Court, a rape trial ended in a mistrial. The judge dismissed the jury after learning a juror conducted internet research on the defendant and shared that information with other jurors.
Jack Washington is charged with Level 1 felony rape and was on trial for allegedly drugging and raping a woman. Chief Deputy Prosecutor Mike Steiner presented the state’s case.
Following the mistrial, Circuit Court Judge Monica Gilmore released Washington from jail and placed him on work release pending a new trial date. Prosecutor Dirk Carnahan said defendants charged with Level 1 felony rape are rarely released or placed on work release while awaiting trial. Steiner objected on behalf of the state, but the judge approved the release.
