New Twist In Vigilante Justice Case

Wayne County Circuit Judge Michael Hathaway has refused to remove himself from hearing the re-trial of the so-called vigilante homeowner Tighe Croff.

It was last December when Croff chased and shot 53 year old Herbert Silas whom Croft believed was trying to break into his home.

Croff, whose first trial ended in a hung jury last week, was charged with second-degree murder until Hathaway reduced the charge to manslaughter.

In his ruling, Hathaway said Croff was acting in the throes of rage when he shot Silas after finding him outside his Detroit home.

The prosecution argued that Hathaway had given the appearance of being biased in favor of the defense, and asked him to take himself off the case.

The case now goes to the criminal courts presiding judge.