Accused Northern Liberties Murder-Rapist Waives Hearing
by KYW's Mike DeNardo
An 18-year-old North Philadelphia man tearfully waived his right to a preliminary hearing today, in connection with the June rape and murder of Northern Liberties waitress Sabina O'Donnell.
Donte Johnson (right) wept throughout the court proceeding as he waived his preliminary hearing.
Assistant district attorney Richard Sax says he was prepared to enter evidence that included Johnson's confession to police that he had grabbed O'Donnell off her bike, and a medical examiner's report saying she was strangled and raped (see previous stories):
"Donte Johnson gave a confession regarding the sexual assault, regarding strangling Sabina, and intending to rob her at first. Also, the DNA of the sperm that was found inside of Sabina is Donte Johnson's."
Defense attorney Guy Sciolla had no comment for reporters. Arraignment is set for July 28th.
