New Haven’s first in-person criminal trial since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic ended before attorneys had a chance to present opening statements.
The case — in which 34-year-old Kwaun Cole faced first-degree assault, robbery and weapons charges in connection with a 2018 shoot-out with cops inside a Krauszer’s Food Store in Hamden —was in the midst of jury selection Thursday when Cole changed his plea from not guilty to guilty.
Jury selection began Tuesday, the first time a criminal proceeding was taking place before Judge Elpedio Vitale live in the 235 Church St. state courthouse in over a year. (Click here for a story about the first day of jury selection.) By Thursday morning, six jurors and one alternate had been chosen. Two more alternates needed to be selected for the trial to begin.
Then Cole informed the court of his change of heart. He formally pleaded guilty in an afternoon session. He now faces sentencing on July 12.