Sandusky judge issues gag order

The judge presiding over the upcoming child molestation trial of former Penn State University assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky has instituted a gag order in the case, preventing anyone directly involved with the pending trial from communicating with the media.

Judge John M. Cleland issued his April 9 order given the “unprecedented publicity generated by the case,” and with the goal of ensuring Sandusky will receive a “fair, impartial and orderly trial,” the order states.

The order prohibits anyone involved in the investigation into Sandusky from speaking publicly about the case.

This includes prosecutors, defense attorneys, and state police investigators.

Those barred from speaking publicly about the case under the gag order must refrain from commenting on Sandusky’s perceived guilt or innocence, cannot speak about any evidence involved in the case, must steer clear from addressing Sandusky’s reputation and character, cannot talk about witness credibility and will not be allowed to give any opinions regarding the “legal or factual merits of positions advanced by either the prosecution or the defense,” the order states.

Failure to comply with the order can result in court sanctions, the order states.

Sandusky is charged with sexually abusing 10 young boys over a 15-year-time period.

The former defensive coordinator for the Nittany Lions football team was arrested late last year following a grand jury presentment.

Sandusky has maintained his innocence. The trial is scheduled to commence later this spring.