NEW EVIDENCE
PROMPTS D.A.
TO FREE TRUITT
Unnamed New Suspect Is Sought
In Hero’s Death In Oneonta Fire
By LIBBY CUDMORE • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com
ONEONTA – New evidence obtained by Otsego County District Attorney John Muehl has suggested that Terrence Truitt did not set the fatal fire that killed former Oneonta firefighter John D. Heller.
Muehl said that he plans to ask the courts to release Truitt from the Otsego County Jail this afternoon.
“Our investigation has revealed additional evidence that ethically requires him to be released,” said Muehl.
The arson charges, however, will not be dropped, according to Muehl.
The investigation is continuing and other suspects are being looked into, according to Muehl. Oneonta Police Chief Doug Brenner said that Truitt’s brother, Gabriel Truitt, is still a “person of interest,” but that they have been unable to locate him at this time.
Should another suspect be identified, Muehl said, a grand jury will be convened. Should the grand jury indict, a warrant will be issued for the suspect’s arrest.
I would have said no send me to trial or drop all charges
When the full weight of the state is bearing down upon you it can be difficult to stick to your principles.