RNC 8 attorney argues for joint trial

A Ramsey County District judge today heard arguments on whether the so-called RNC 8 should be tried together.

The eight people face felony conspiracy charges related to protest activities during the Republican National Convention last year.

Each of the eight was charged with conspiracy to commit riot in the second degree and conspiracy to commit criminal damage in the first degree.

Defense attorney Bruce Nestor from the National Lawyers Guild said that's why the eight defendants should have a joint trial.

"The RNC 8 are advocating for a single joint trial saying that because they are all charged with conspiracy that is the type of charge that should be tried together," Nestor said.

The Ramsey County Attorney's office disputes that, saying there's no need to try them together.

Nestor said he expects a ruling within the next few months.

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