Gardner man found guilty of resisting police

A circuit court jury deliberated almost 40 minutes Wednesday, Jan. 20, before finding a Gardner man guilty of resisting police.

Sentencing for Phillip Rich, 20, Gardner, was set for April 9.

Rich was charged Nov. 29, 2008, with battery, for striking Keven Raulerson in the mouth at 120 Depot St., Gardner. He was then charged with resisting police by Deputy R. J. Knezevich.

On May 11, 2009, a jury found Rich not guilty of the battery charge, however, did not reach a verdict on the resisting charge.

A new jury was selected Wednesday in circuit court to hear evidence in the resisting police case.

Deputies Knezevich and Darren Roach testified for the state. Rich testified in his own defense.

Following closing arguments and final instructions, the jury began deliberations at 2:23 p.m. and returned the guilty verdict at 2:59 p.m.