Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky has waived his right to a preliminary hearing on child sex-abuse charges, eliminating the possibility he would have to confront his accusers in court Tuesday. The decision to waive the hearing was unexpected but not unusual. At hearings, prosecutors must show they have probable cause to bring a case to trial. Several of the 10 accusers had expected to testify.
With Sandusky waiving the right to a hearing, there will now be a trial on the child sex-abuse charges. Senior Deputy Attorney General E. Mark Costanzo said the move would ultimately be beneficial to the victims. “It avoids their having to testify for a second time. They will of course testify at a trial in the case.” Sandusky’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 11.
