KHTS Radio Santa Clarita Radio – Santa Clarita News
Jury selection has begun for Newhall restaurant owner Sam Albert Gardian’s trial, where prosecutors hope to prove charges of sexual misconduct with an employee.
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Gardian, who owns Southern Smoke BBQ & Brewhouse on Main Street, was charged with two misdemeanor counts of battery and two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery in June 2016 by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.
During Gardian’s first appearance in court in June 2016, he pleaded not guilty to the charges, and claimed they were false allegations.
Gardian’s attorney characterized the charges and an accompanying lawsuit as a retaliation attempt by an employee who was disciplined on multiple occasions at Southern Smoke BBQ & Brewhouse.
Related: Jury Trial For Newhall Business Owner Accused Of Sexual Misconduct Continues
“Mr. Gardian looks forward to defending against these false claims,” said Defense Attorney David Diamond in a previous KHTS article. “There was never any sexual battery. The alleged victim was written up on multiple occasions for misconduct at work. In fact, the allegations only arose after she was given her final warning, with a threat of termination.”
At the Wednesday jury selection, Gardian’s attorney asked potential jurors questions regarding the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, as well as questioning if they believed it was possible that somebody could be falsely accused of sexual crimes.
Jury selection is scheduled to finish Thursday. Officials said Gardian’s trial will begin at the Santa Clarita Courthouse as soon as the jury is selected.
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