The trial for a man accused of beating a 73-year-old man to death will be held on May 13.
The case against Branden Frazier, 28, was delayed last week after he showed up in court — after the jury had been selected — still wearing his jail uniform.
County officials said at the time that Mr. Frazier had refused to put on his civilian courtroom attire, and Allegheny County Common Pleas Judge Kevin G. Sasinsoski then postponed the case, saying, "No clothes, no trial."
However, during a hearing Tuesday morning, Deputy District Attorney Stephie Ramaley said her office subpoenaed records from the jail and sheriff's office to learn what happened.
Both entities provided documentation that the jail actually lost Mr. Frazier's clothing the day of trial.
Amie Downs, a spokeswoman for the county, said she did not want to continue to place blame.
"There were errors made and the jail is currently reviewing processes to ensure nothing like this happens again.”
Judge Sasinsoski made no comment about the discovery and instead asked about a trial date.
Jury selection is now set for May 9, with testimony to begin May 13.
Mr. Frazier is charged with beating Benito Nicoletti to death in McKees Rocks on June 1, 2016.
First Published: February 19, 2019, 7:45 p.m.