Opposing counsels delivered their closing arguments in the afternoon after three days of trial in the courtroom of Presiding Judge Robert C. Naraja.
On the request of Chief Prosecutor Michael Ermest, the Variety is withholding the judge’s decision regarding the disturbing the peace charge against Saluta in order to not sway jurors who were dismissed late yesterday afternoon.
The prosecution maintained that Saluta assaulted Alejandro Orellano with a knife, but the defense argued that Saluta was holding a lighter that appeared to be a “shining metal.”
Saluta testified he was not armed with a knife, and that he did not kick or chase the victim.
Saluta’s testimony was corroborated by the testimony of a friend.
Orellano and his girlfriend testified they saw Saluta armed with a knife.
Assistant Attorney General Peter Prestley argued that there was no reason for the couple to lie since they were not facing serious charges, compared to Saluta who, the prosecutor added, had reasons to lie.
Assistant Attorney General Benjamin Petersburg is also prosecuting the case.
Assistant Public Defender Douglas Hartig, Saluta’s counsel, argued there was no evidence that showed his client was “on the attacking/stabbing motion, but was only on a punching motion.”
