2 witnesses to testify via Skype

A Saipan teacher and a former Guam prosecutor who now lives on Saipan have been directed to testify in the ongoing jury trial of a former Guam police officer accused of fatally shooting a fellow officer in Yigo, Guam.

In an order on Monday, CNMI Superior Court Associate Judge Joseph N. Camacho commanded Saipan International School teacher Kathy Ruzsala and former Guam assistant attorney general Teri Tenorio to testify on Feb. 20, 2017, via Skype in the trial of Mark A. Torre Jr.

Camacho issued the order after Torre, through counsel Victorino DLG Torres, asked the Superior Court to command Ruzsala and Tenorio to testify in Torre’s trial in Guam.

Torres said that Guam Superior Court Judge Michael J. Bordallo has granted Torre’s motion for an order commanding Ruzsala and Tenorio to appear at trial on Feb. 20 and a motion requesting assistance of the Superior Court.

Torre is accused of shooting and killing Sgt. Elbert Piolo, a fellow officer in the Guam Police Department, as the two sat inside a pickup truck parked outside Torre’s home in Yigo on July 13, 2015. Torres pleaded not guilty; his defense is that he was trying to prevent Piolo from committing suicide.

Attorney Joaquin C. Arriola Jr., Guam counsel for Torre, said that Tenorio told Guam AG investigators, her co-workers at the time on July 12, 2015, that she and Piolo were close friends.

Arriola said Tenorio was subpoenaed to appear by the defense and while awaiting her appearance before the Guam court, after opening statements, she advised him (Arriola) that she is now a resident of Saipan.

Arriola said Tenorio asked to be called “out of order” in the presentation of evidence, and prior to her departure.

Arriola did not mention Ruzsala’s possible testimony in the trial.

In granting Torre’s petition, Camacho said that, out of deference and mutual respect, the courts of one state or jurisdiction will give effect to the laws and judgments of another state or jurisdiction.

Camacho said he finds that Bordallo’s order to appear is a judgment of the Guam Superior Court and, in consideration of the respect and courtesy of the sister judiciary extends to CNMI courts, he will use the court’s comity powers to assist.

Camacho said Feb. 20 is a public holiday for the CNMI Superior Court.

The judge ordered the CNMI Marshals to open the main doors of the CNMI House of Justice and doors to courtroom 220A for the public.

Camacho said at least one CNMI clerk of court shall be present in the courtroom during the proceedings to ensure accurate records and adherence to court rules and procedures.