A homicide trial in Lake Charles was abruptly halted after allegations that a member of the defense team passed drugs to a defendant inside the courtroom.
The case involved three men accused in the 2019 killing of Javid Duhon. Prosecutors from the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office were handling the trial, with each defendant represented by separate legal counsel.
According to Louisiana State Police investigators, a note containing a substance was passed to one of the defendants during proceedings. The substance later tested positive for synthetic marijuana.
Authorities arrested Demi Fontana in connection with the incident. She faces charges including possession with intent to distribute marijuana and introducing contraband into a correctional facility.
Following the allegations, David Ritchie declared a mistrial, bringing the proceedings to an immediate stop.
A new trial date has been scheduled for August 3 as the case moves forward.
