EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The trial against former New Mexico State University (NMSU) basketball player Deshawndre Washington will remain in Las Cruces, according to a new decision made by a judge that’s overseeing the case.
Washington is accused of several felony sexual assault incidents that allegedly happened during the 2022-2023 basketball season.
New Mexico Department of Justice prosecutors initially filed a motion to change venues last month following a news conference held by Washington’s lawyers, David Mestemaker and Michael Cain.
The state raised concerns that the move could have complicated proceedings and hurt the credibility of witnesses.
Washington’s lawyers at the time said that Washington was “100 percent innocent” and that his behavior should be considered “horseplay.”
“And I do believe that even in these days and time when people are sensitive and social media is everywhere, that the people will see that this is nothing more than a bunch of teenage boys playing around doing stupid stuff no harm intended. anybody that didn’t want to be a part of it. the evidence I believe will show wasn’t a part of it,” Mestemaker said.
The judge overseeing the case did agree that the lawyers did overly question the character of witnesses and he partially disqualified Mestemaker from continuing with the case and has levied sanctions against Cain.
Both attorneys will have to pay a total of $4,000 to Casa de Peregrinos, a local food charity by April 11.
The judge also barred all parties from speaking to the media moving forward and the jury trial against Washington is scheduled for April 14.
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