Testimony Phase Set To Begin In Armstrong Co. Jail Escapee Murder Trial
KITTANNING (KDKA) -- A jury of six men and six women was seated Monday in a much-publicized murder case in Armstrong County.
Opening statements and testimony now begins Tuesday morning in the trial of Robert Crissman Jr.
Last July, Crissman, who authorities say was a trustee at the Armstrong County Jail and is a known heroin addict, walked away from the facility because he had access to an open door.
He slipped away un-noticed while a jail guard, who was supposed to be keeping an eye on security cameras, was apparently dozing.
After his jail break, police said he walked to the home of a couple he was acquainted with, where he allegedly beat and strangled 55-year-old Terry Long and stole her boyfriend's truck.
Crissman was apprehended the following day after a short police chase.
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Armstrong County District Attorney Scott Andreassi said investigators did not believe Long and her boyfriend knew that Crissman was an escapee when he showed up at their door.