Crime and Courts

Jordan Johnson rape trial resumes in Missoula

Posted: Feb 25, 2013 2:49 PM by Irina Cates - MTN News

MISSOULA - The rape trial of suspended University of Montana quarterback Jordan Johnson resumed in a Missoula courtroom on Monday morning.

The accuser's family testified how their daughter and sister changed since the alleged rape. But Judge Karen Townsend is only allowing audio recording of the alleged victim and her family.

The woman's brother said his sister cries more, has become more guarded and they're not as close.

Johnson's attorney pointed out a tweet the brother sent shortly after an interview with the defense. The mother was also questioned about her meeting with University of Montana officials.

She said in a meeting with the former Dean of Students, Charles Couture she mentioned that she didn't like a statement made by former head Griz football coach Robin Pflugrad, but never said what that statement was.

Prosecutor: "Just generally, what were you upset at?"

Alleged victim's mother: "Just the comments that came from Coach Pflugrad. He's a university official and I just didn't think he needed to be talking like that when there's another student involved."

The defense said that Pflugrad made the statement because he knew Johnson since he was a youth.

Throughout the trial the defense has suggested that Pflugrad and former UM Athletic Director Jim O'Day were fired after the alleged victim's parents met with university officials.