MIAMI -- The trial of Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor
for allegedly pointing a gun during a dispute was postponed Friday
so it won't interfere with his availability through the NFL
playoffs.
Prosecutor Michael Grieco told Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mary
Barzee that Taylor should not be treated differently than any other
defendant, many of whom have to miss work to attend court, and his
trial should begin as scheduled Tuesday.
He also pointed to Taylor's ejection from last Saturday's
playoff win over Tampa Bay for spitting in the face of Buccaneer
running back Michael Pittman.
"Mr. Taylor has not been a model citizen," Grieco said.
But Taylor's attorney, Edward Carhart, told the judge that would
create a hardship for Taylor and the Redskins, who play the Seattle
Seahawks on Saturday. If they win, they would play Jan. 22 in the
NFC championship game. Carhart also said he still needs to
interview some witnesses.
Barzee agreed with Carhart and moved the trial to March 20. The
trial had originally been scheduled for last October, but was
delayed so Taylor would not have to leave the team. Taylor was not
at Friday's hearing.
Taylor, a former University of Miami standout, was allegedly
among a group of people who got into an armed confrontation over an
all-terrain vehicle. Prosecutors say Taylor pointed a gun during
the dispute and is charged with aggravated assault with a firearm
and simple battery.
Taylor, who has pleaded not guilty, faces up to 16 years in
prison if convicted. Taylor signed a seven-year, $18 million
contract after being drafted by the Redskins in 2004. He is free on
$16,500 bond.