Inmate freed after Mass. lab scandal fails to show up for court, is now a fugitive
(CBS/AP) BOSTON - Authorities say a career criminal whose bail was reduced because of allegations of mishandling of drug samples by a Massachusetts chemist has failed to show up for court and is now a considered a fugitive.
Marcus Pixley's bail was originally $5,000 cash after he was charged with possession and intent to distribute crack cocaine.
His bail was reduced to $1,000 because the drugs he was allegedly found with her tested by Annie Dookhan, a state chemist charged in a scandal that has potentially put thousands of drug cases in jeopardy.
Pixley posted the reduced bail but failed to appear in court Wednesday. A judge issued a warrant for his arrest on Thursday.
Pixley has a criminal record dating 1977, including convictions for rape, assault and battery, and drugs.
Prosecutors argued against Pixley's bail reduction.