McElhattan Trial Expedited
The trial of Thomas McElhattan, accused of fatally shooting 21-year-old Rebecca Haynes, may be moved up from its originally scheduled date in late June next year. McElhattan, 42, of Bradford, is charged with shooting Haynes five times at her Jefferson Street home in June, allegedly due to her intention to reveal their involvement to his wife.
McKean County’s District Attorney, Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer, has requested an earlier trial date, citing Pennsylvania’s Rule 600, which guarantees a defendant’s right to a speedy trial. As of June 7, McElhattan will have been incarcerated for 365 days, prompting the district attorney’s request for expedited proceedings.
Judge Michele Alfieri-Causer has ordered court administration to provide earlier trial dates and to submit information on potential witnesses by February 28. The judge has also approved seven challenges for each side during jury selection and requested four alternate jurors. The trial is expected to last several days, with jury selection commencing on a date to be determined.
