HEMPFIELD MAN GETS MISTRIAL

A jury was unable to reach a verdict in the case of a Hempfield man who is charged with sexually assaulting a mentally disabled person.  The Trib reports that Judge Meghan Billik-Defazio declared a mistrial in the case against Dennis Hertzog after seven hours of deliberation.  Prosecutors said that he sexually assaulted her four times in late 2022, charges that he denies.  Hertzog’s attorney said that he was framed as the victim’s family is trying to get her social security.  Assistant DA Adam Barr said prosecutors will review all the evidence before deciding on whether or not to seek a new trial.