Crime & Safety

Trial Postponed for Former Bishop Charged in Bicyclist Death: Reports

Heather Cook, charged in the death of cyclist Thomas Palermo, was to stand trial Thursday.

The trial for the former Maryland Episcopal bishop charged in connection with the death of a Baltimore bicyclist has been postponed, according to reports.

Heather Elizabeth Cook, 58, was indicted on 13 charges in the death of bicyclist Thomas Palermo on Roland Avenue.

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Authorities said Palermo was riding in a bike lane when he was hit on Dec. 27, 2014, and Cook left the scene and later returned. Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby alleged that Cook registered a 0.22 blood alcohol level on a breathalyzer. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08 in Maryland.

Cook’s indictment included charges of manslaughter, negligent manslaughter, homicide by motor vehicle while intoxicated, homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence and nine traffic violations.

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Her trial has been rescheduled for Sept. 9, according to The Baltimore Sun, which reported her attorney said they were “still doing our due diligence” to prepare.

She has resigned from her post with the Episcopal diocese of Maryland, according to WJZ.

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