Norwalk Mass Shooting Threat Case: More Synagogue Visits Allowed

STAMFORD, CT — Brandon Wagshol, the suspect who Norwalk police said showed interest in carrying out a mass shooting, was granted permission Wednesday for more synagogue visits, but not before his attorney and a court judge exchanged sharp remarks aimed at each other.

Attorney Darnell Crosland, who recently was charged with witness tampering and bribery, bristled before Judge Gary White in Stamford Superior Court when White asked Wagshol if he was aware of Crosland's arrest.

"You still want him to represent you?" Judge White asked, adding that he could understand if a client had concerns that Crosland's representation might be "diminished" or "impeded" due to the arrest. "No one is forcing your decision?"

Wagshol said that he was aware of Crosland's arrest, and that he still wanted the attorney to represent him.

At which point a clearly annoyed Crosland pointedly suggested to the judge that if he truly wanted to be fair — a "true canvas" as Crosland called it — White should question Assistant State’s Attorney Paul Ferencek.

Ferencek, who prosecuting the Wagshol case, is also involved in Crosland's case, and the high-profile attorney attempted to get the judge to require Ferencek to acknowledge on the record if he had any issues with Crosland.

"Don't tell me how to do my job," White said angrily.

Wagshol was in court seeking permission to visit a synagogue for Friday night and Saturday morning religious services. He was approved for a similar request last month.

White granted him permission to attend Friday night services, but withheld permission for the additional day until the results of a psychological evaluation of Wagshol is completed. The 22-year-old suspect has been confined to his father's home while the case is adjudicated, and he has temporarily been banned from Central Connecticut State University where he had been taking classes.

Wednesday's contentious hearing was not over until after Crosland and White sparred over the date for the next hearing, with the judge and Ferencek claiming it was set for Dec. 4, and Crosland saying it was Dec. 2.

After a brief but testy exchange, an agitated White set the date for Dec. 4.