Jamar Houser appeared in court Monday to face charges in the shooting death of 80-year-old Angeline Fimognari last month. He wasn't the only member of his family appearing in front of a judge.
His parents, John Houser and Frances Cianciola, were both arraigned on felony charges of retaliation for allegedly threatening a witness in the case.
"Because that witness did cooperate with us, and provide information, they then singled him out," said Jay Macejko, Youngstown city prosecutor. "And at least levied a threat or tried to strike back at him because of his involvement."
Jamar Houser is accused of shooting Fimognari Jan. 23. He was arrested Jan. 29. His parents were arrested last week.
And the couple's threat is not the only one that has the court and prosecutor's office on its toes. Security was very tight at Jamar Houser's own hearing.
"There are some very strong feelings in the community about this case, and we just wanted to make sure that no one acted out of emotion or acted irrationally and would try to do something, whether to a witness, to the defendant, or to anyone associated with this case," said Macejko.
Some witnesses have even felt threatened enough to leave the Valley until things cool down.
"Some witnesses were allowed to leave the area, but they are in contact with us," said Macejko. "Anytime anyone feels uncomfortable, they should contact the county prosecutor's office, the city prosecutor's office, or the detective division of the Youngstown Police Department," said Macejko.
In court Monday, Jamar Houser decided to waive his right to a preliminary hearing on his charges.
"We expected and certainly we prepared as if the hearing would go forward," said Macejko. "We did have witnesses present that would have established probable cause for this offense. Rather than go through that, the defense chose to waive the preliminary hearing, and asked that the matter be sent to the grand jury."
Macejko said that could take between two to five weeks for them to hear evidence. And the grand jury will be handed the task of determining an indictment for Jamar Houser.
Family members of Fimognari were present in court Monday and had hoped to hear some details of the case.
"Now we have to wait for the grand jury, and that's it," said Gary Milano, Fimognari's nephew. "You know, we were kind of disappointed."
Jamar Houser's parents are due back in court on Feb. 16. Their charges each carry a possible one- to five-year prison sentence. John Houser's bond was set at $250,000 and Cianciola's at $100,000.
