Robbery suspect pleads not guilty

ONE of the men who allegedly robbed Cebu Board Member Julian Daan has entered a plea of “not guilty” during his arraignment yesterday.

Julius Racaza, who was assisted by lawyer Fatima Asjali of the Public Attorney’s Office, denied the robbery charges lodged against him before Regional Trial Court Soliver Peras of Branch 10.

Daan and his wife Yolanda, who were present during the proceedings, were represented by Assistant City Prosecutor Floralil Lucero-Albert of Talisay City.

Racaza and co-accused Rameses Abatayo were accused of forcibly taking P1,928,230 worth of assorted jewelry from Daan’s home in Talisay City last May 16.

When arraigned last July 18, Abatayo also denied his participation in the crime although he earlier admitted having robbed Daan.

He earlier accused Racaza of conspiring with him. Racaza is out on bail. Trial starts on Oct. 3.  ador vincent s. mayol