Trial Of Contractor With Md. Ties Ends In Cuba, No Verdict
HAVANA (AP) -- The trial of a U.S. government contractor facing up to 20 years in jail on charges he sought to undermine Cuba's government wrapped up Saturday after both sides gave closing arguments, but there was no immediate word of a verdict.
The fate of Alan Gross, a 61-year-old Maryland native detained for more than a year since being caught bringing communications equipment into the communist-run island, was in the hands of a five-judge panel.
Gloria Berbena, a spokeswoman for the U.S. diplomatic mission on the island, said Gross' Cuban lawyer would be notified when a verdict was reached, but there was no indication when that might be.
Gross' American lawyer, Peter J. Kahn, issued a short statement, saying the trial had ended and "the family remains hopeful that Alan will be home soon."
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
