Judge grants bench trial for man accused of killing Latasha Roundtree

CEDAR RAPIDS - Twenty-year-old Tajh Ross will go to trial this week on a first-degree murder charge after a judge rejected a last-minute attempt to delay the proceedings.

His request to have his case heard by a judge instead of a jury, however, was granted.

His trial was scheduled to start Monday but Ross sought a continuance Friday after learning the original judge in the case would not be able to preside over the trial because of health reasons.

Sixth Judicial District Chief Judge Patrick Grady, who had been specially assigned to the case, is recovering from a surgery he underwent earlier in the week.

Ross argued he felt more 'comfortable” with Grady, who has been involved in all previous proceedings in the case. He asked that the trial be reset.

First Assistant Linn County Attorney Nick Maybanks argued that he was ready and prepared to go ahead with the trial. Witnesses had been subpoenaed, he said, and one witness even was flying in from out of state.

Grady, who participated in Friday's hearing by phone conference, said he trusted Sosalla and knew he had the ability to handle the case. He said there would be no prejudice to Ross if Sosalla stepped in. Therefore the request for a continuance was overruled.

Todd Weimer, Ross' attorney, then said Ross had told him within the past 24 hours that he wanted to waive his right to a jury trial.

Maybanks had no objections, and Sosalla granted the request.

The trial now will start at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Ross is charged with first-degree murder, intimidation with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit a forcible felony and going armed with intent.

Four other defendants charged in the case have pleaded to lesser charges and will testify against Ross.

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