Judge Declares Mistrial After Murder Suspect Hits Lawyer

A judge has declared a mistrial for a Massachusetts murder suspect who punched his lawyer in the face in open court.

The Telegram & Gazette reports that the jury was not present when 35-year-old Janleer Povez hit his appointed lawyer, Elliot Levine, at a hearing on Monday.

Povez said he didn't want Levine as his lawyer.

Povez is facing a second-degree murder charge for allegedly stabbing a Westborough man during a drug deal in 2008.

Povez was removed from the courtroom following the outburst and Levine moved for a mistrial. Levine suffered a fat lip.

The prosecutor objected, saying Povez deliberately tried to cause a mistrial. The district attorney says Povez could face additional charges.

A new lawyer will be appointed for Povez, whose case will continue in August.