BUCYRUS—Joshua Benedict, 40, currently housed in the Crawford County Jail appeared in Crawford County Common Pleas Court on Friday to seek a motion to review images and evidence against him in preparation for his defense.
Benedict faces 39 counts of pandering sexually-oriented material involving a minor. If convicted, because of the age of the victim in the case he could serve life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Benedict is represented by Bucyrus attorney Adam Stone.
Visiting Morrow County Judge Howard Hall is presiding over the Benedict trial.
In an oral motion, Stone asked the court for his client to be able to view the evidence against him in order to assist in his defense for the upcoming trial. Evidence includes pornographic images, videos, and other evidence.
Assistant Prosecutor Ryan Hoovler told the court that the state believes the images are integral portions of the case and finds it fair that the defense be able to go over all the exhibits and evidence with his client.
“We understand the sensitivity of the material. We also understand the necessity for the defendant to understand the evidence against him.” Hoovler said.
After conferring with the attorneys and court staff, Judge Hall determined that a room in the courthouse would be reserved for the review of the evidence. There will be a recording device in the room. Due to the sensitivity of the evidence, it was concluded that the evidence should not leave the court building.
Stone told the court he would present a written motion agreeing to have access to the material under controlled circumstances.
Hoovler told the court the evidence is available whenever the defense wants it.
Judge Hall concluded the hearing by reiterating that Benedict’s trial needs to move forward in the interest of justice. He told attorneys he would make himself available to discuss business before the trial in order to avoid any further delays.
The Benedict trial is scheduled to begin on April 26th at 9 am in the Crawford County Common Pleas Court.