Judge imposes gag order in Sandusky case

As Jerry Sandusky’s trial approaches, attorneys, investigators and witnesses are being told to no longer speak publicly in an effort to provide a fair and impartial jury pool.

Sandusky’s sex abuse trial is scheduled to begin June 5. The scandal and fallout made national news after the former Penn State University assistant football coach was accused of molesting boys. Charges were filed against Sandusky as the result of a grand jury investigation that has been ongoing for about three years.

Ever since the grand jury presentment was released and charges were filed, Sandusky’s attorney — Joe Amendola — has been very outspoken. Amendola allowed Sandusky to make statements to the throng of media after his court appearances and even gave Sandusky approval to answer questions in interviews.

The most controversial interview Sandusky gave was with NBC’s Bob Costas less than two weeks after his charges were filed. During the interview, Costas asked if Sandusky was sexually attracted to underage boys. Sandusky replied, “Am I sexually attracted to underage boys? Sexually attracted? No. I enjoy young people. I love to be around them, um, I, but no, I’m not sexually attracted to young boys.”

In addition, Amendola talked to reporters for hours after Sandusky waived his preliminary hearing in Bellefonte.

The judge overseeing the case — John Cleland — said the gag order will preserve the rights of both Sandusky and prosecutors presenting their case on behalf of the alleged victims.

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