Patience Wears Thin As Key Witness Takes Stand For 3rd Day In Gus Boulis Murder Trial
FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) - Testy exchanges as a key witness for the state is on the stand for a third day in the murder trial of Gus Boulis. This time, he's fending off allegations that he's a liar, while two defense attorneys chip away at this testimony.
Dwayne Nicholson is the former body guard of Anthony "Little Tony" Ferrari. Little Tony and Anthony "Big Tony" Moscatiello are accused of masterminding the murder of Hollywood millionaire Gus Boulis in February of 2001. Boulis was shot to death during the messy sale of his SunCruz Casino Business. Nicholson claimed, at different times, both Tonys asked him to kill Boulis.
He testified Thursday about Big Tony asking him while they were driving around. "So you know, I need Gus killed," he recalled "Big Tony" telling him.
During cross examination, Big Tony's attorney questioned him about that alleged conversation.
"You say that Mr. Moscatiello tells you he wants Gus Boulis Killed?" asked attorney David Bogenschutz. "Yes," said Nicholson. "Are you sure it was Anthony Moscatiello who said that?" continued Bogenschutz. "I am positive, sir," said Nicholson.
But then Big Tony's attorney said he testified differently several years ago.
"You said that Mr. Moscatiello never turned around and said anything to you at all," said Bogenschutz. "That entire statement was wrong, sir," said Nicholson.
It's been a week filled with a lot of tedious, very slow moving testimony. Now, there are signs that the sequestered jury is getting restless.
"I understand that sequestration is not a picnic," Broward Circuit Judge Ilona Holmes told the jury.
Jurors told the judge they didn't like a lot of the food, some wanted Mexican food brought in. Others even offered to pay for better meals. Judge Holmes promised to do what she could and asked for patience.
"So work with me on this. I'll make you love me! Yes I will! Yes I will!" said Judge Holmes.
The jury will be back at work on Saturday. In a rare weekend session, Saturday's testimony will go on from 9:30 am until 3 p.m.
