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Cipriano, Young to Have Joint Trial, Separate Juries for Murder of Dearborn Schools Employee

The two face felony charges in an April attack that killed Robert Cipriano and seriously injured Rose and Salvatore Cipriano.

 

Tucker Cipriano and Mitchell Young will be tried together, but with separate juries, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Shalina Kumar ruled today.

Cipriano, 19, and Young, 21, face charges related to the April 16 attack in the Cipriano home, which resulted in the death of Farmington Hills resident and Dearborn Public Schools employee Robert Cipriano, Tucker's father; and severe injuries to his mother, Rose, and brother, Salvatore.

Defense attorney Michael McCarthy asked Kumar if the two could have separate trials, arguing that the case has become known as the "Cipriano Case" and that the notoriety that comes with it could cause Young to have an unfair trial.

Prosecuting Attorney John Skrzynski argued that Young will receive attention even if tried separately, pointing out that several media outlets were at the Wednesday trial, which was just for Young.

Kumar agreed, stating that any prejudice will be suffered whether Young is tried separately or not. She said that the name "Cipriano" would be repeated throughout Young's trial, as well.

Kumar added that it would be harmful to have minors Isabella Cipriano, 8, and Tanner Cipriano, 17, give their testimony twice.

Tucker Cipriano will next appear in court for another pre-trial hearing on Oct. 31, while Young will be back on Dec. 11.

Related Topics: Cipriano Trial, Dearborn Public Schools, and Robert Cipriano

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