New Bedford Graffiti Vandalism Case Remains Unresolved

Two Rhode Island men  Tuesday decided not to plead guilty to tagging and vandalism charges, and instead will take their chances at trial. 

Reddick Vaughn and Shawn Marrow are charged with carrying out a tagging spree last October in New Bedford's Historic District where 16 properties were damaged.  According to the District Attorney's office, the suspects withdrew their guilty plea after District Court Judge Peter Kilmartin said he was considering jail time for both men.

Earlier, Judge Bernadette Sabra recused herself from hearing the case.  Mayor Jon Mitchell had sent a four page letter to Sabra on Monday, spelling out the reasons why he believed the defendants deserved jail time.  Mitchell declined to comment on the judge's actions, but says the letter was appropriate....

Both defendants will return to court on October 15.  Charges against a third man are also pending.