By TOM DIDDEL
Jordan Johnson take the stand to testify in his own defense.
Defense Calls Doctor to Testify Against PTSD Diagnosis in Johnson Rape Trial
The eleventh day of accused rapist and former University of Montana quarterback Jordan Johnson’s rape trial saw Johnson’s defense attempting to cast doubt on the prosecution’s assertion that the victim suffered from PTSD. Dr. Will Stratford testified that the counselor from the Curry Health Center did not have enough information to conclude Johnson’s accuser suffered from the disorder. (read more) other links: Johnson Testifies, Johnson’s interview with police, ABC News Coverage. Evidence portion completed.
MCPS Committees Look at Ways to Improve School SafetyDecember’s Connecticut school shooting spawned three committees set up to look at school safety in Missoula’s school system. The Facility Safety and Security Advisory Committee met for the first time on Wednesday night to look at safety during sporting events and other school festivities that draw large crowds. (read more) other links: KGVO coverage, Emergency officials discuss safety at MCPS
ADU’s or “Granny Apartments” Remain in City Council’s AgendaMissoula’s city council took another look at the controversial plan to allow ADU’s, or accessory dwelling units in the city. The plan aims to create more affordable housing in Missoula by opening up the possibility for increased rental units within the city. (read more) other links: Missoula panel recommends against ADUs.
State Representative Edmunds Throws Hat into the Ring for US Senator Baucus’s SeatMissoula’s State Representative Champ Edmunds kick-started his campaign for the GOP’s US senatorial nomination race Thursday afternoon. Edmunds hopes to unseat Senator Max Baucus, who has served in the US Senate for Montana since 1978. (read more) other links: More on Champ Edmunds, Max Baucus
Lady Griz Basketball Team Gets Decisive Senior Night Victory Over Southern Utah
The Lady Griz basketball team defeated Southern Utah with an impressive 70-54 score Thursday night in Dahlberg Arena. The win improves the Lady Griz’s chances to host the conference tournament as they remain atop the Big Sky Conference. The team will finish their regular season with three road games starting with Montana State (Saturday night), Northern Arizona, and ending in California against Sacramento State. (read more)
Each week, Tom Diddel recaps the week’s most talked-about stories in Missoula. Visit the Make it Missoula News & Opinion section for more talk of the town.
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Tom Diddel has lived in Missoula on and off for nearly thirty-eight years. He enjoys skiing, hiking, and many other outdoor activities. He holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Montana and is currently working as a Freelance Writer and a Para-Educator.