Jury trial in robbery case begins

The jury trial of an ex-convict who, together with another man, allegedly beat up and robbed a 65-year-old male masseur, began yesterday in the Superior Court.

Assistant attorney general Eileen E. Wisor first called to the witness stand a police officer and the victim to testify against the suspect, Nestor C. Taitano.

Saipan Tribune learned that the masseur, Guoxi Liang, a Chinese national, could not identify Taitano at the trial.

The trial will continue today, Wednesday.

Assistant public defender Matthew Meyer is defending Taitano.

Associate judge Joseph N. Camacho is presiding over the case.

Taitano and Joshua Basaliso were arrested in April 2011 for allegedly beating up and robbing Liang outside his house in San Antonio. Liang sustained multiple injuries in the face and head.

The Office of the Attorney General charged Taitano with robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, assault and battery, and disturbing the peace.

Basaliso has already pleaded guilty to charges as part of a plea deal. (Ferdie de la Torre)