Cubs clinch playoff spot, Pirates win on Stallings HR in 9th
The NL Central-leading Cubs were assured a spot in the expanded playoff field when Philadelphia was swept in a doubleheader at Washington. It was Stallings’ third home run of the season and the third game-ending hit of his career. Anthony Rizzo’s two-run homer in the eighth inning had pulled the Cubs into a tie at 2-all. The Pirates took a 2-0 lead on RBI doubles by Erik Gonzalez in the second inning and Adam Frazier in the fifth. Pirates: RHP Trevor Williams (1-8, 6.70) has lost five straight decisions since getting his lone win Aug. 13 at Cincinnati.
Judge denies Everett Miller’s attorneys motion to dismiss death penalty
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – A court hearing was held Friday morning to discuss new motions presented by Everett Miller’s attorneys after he was convicted of first-degree murder. The defense presented motions to set aside the jury’s death recommendation, set a new trial and interview the jurors. During the hearing, the judge denied the defense’s request to set aside the death recommendation and receive a new trial. "The court is going to deny the record for a death recommendation and the motion for a new trial." The court also denied defense’s requests to interview jurors, after the court believed there was no evidence that jurors were being bullied during the deliberating process.
Convicted Kissimmee cop killer wants death recommendation thrown out
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – A man convicted of fatally shooting two Kissimmee police officers wants the jury’s death sentence recommendation thrown out, according to court records. Everett Miller’s attorneys recently filed a 70-page motion asking that the death recommendation be set aside and that a new trial and sentencing proceeding be held. The documents also seek arrest of judgment and the opportunity to interview jurors. Miller’s sentencing is set for Dec. 20. Miller was convicted of killing Kissimmee Sgt.