Wednesday, April 23, 2008

DNA specialist takes over defense of accused killer in Micronesian church slayings


Cynthia Ann Dryden, an assistant public defender who has a reputation as a specialist in cases involving DNA, is the new lawyer of record for Eikan Elam Saimon.

Saimon, 53, Neosho, is charged with three counts of first degree murder, four counts of assault, and single counts of felonious restraint and armed criminal action in connection with the Aug. 12 shooting rampage during an afternoon Micronesian service at the First Congregational Church of Neosho. The murder victims were Pastor Kernal Rehobson and church deacons. Ms. Dryden normally handles cases in the eastern part of the state.

Saimon's trial is scheduled to begin Monday, June 23, in Newton County Circuit Court. A Greene County jury will be brought to Newton County to hear the case.

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