New Trial Sought in Beating of Local WWII VeteranNew Trial Sought in Beating of Local WWII Veteran

5/29/13 - A hearing is set next week for one of the men convicted in the vicious beating of a Livingston County World War II veteran. Livingston County Prosecutor Bill Vailiencourt tells WHMI that 42-year-old Harry Riley filed a signed affidavit in January claiming his co-defendant, 37-year-old Noah Richard Lovell III did not plan, nor participate in the robbery and beating of John Pickett in his Oceola Township home in 2008. Both men were convicted of armed robbery, unlawful imprisonment, torture and first-degree home invasion. Authorities say Riley, who was sentenced to a term of 88 to 135 years in prison, posed as a utility worker when he approached Pickett and lured him outside his home in October 2008. They say Lovell then entered the residence and looked for cash and valuables. Picket was beaten when he returned inside. Based on Riley’s affidavit, Lovell, who is serving a 50 to 95 year sentence, is seeking a new trial. A hearing to review that motion is schedule for June 6th in front of Livingston County Circuit Court Judge Michael Hatty. (JK)