Chosa enters plea in trespassing charge
Posted: 07.27.2010 at 2:27 PM

Trespasser is giving up the right to a trial

Photo

MARQUETTE COUNTY -- Chris Chosa, one of the protestors charged with trespassing at Kennecott's Eagle Mine site, plead no contest to the charges Tuesday morning in District Court.

By pleading no contest, Chosa is giving up the right to a trial.  If you remember, he was one of the protestors arrested back in May for refusing to leave the property leased by Kennecott.

By pleading no contest, Chosa faces up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250, plus court costs.

"The reason for the no contest plea is because you don't want to admit that you did anything wrong, but you do want to resolve this matter.  Is that correct?" asked District Judge Dennis Girard.  Chosa replied "Yes."

"And there are also potential civil issues, is that also correct?" Girard asked.  "Yes," Chosa responded.

"OK, I will find that to be a valid reason for the no contest plea," Girard concluded.

Chosa will be sentenced on September 7.