Court briefs for January 26, 2001

Friday, Jan. 26, 2001 | 11:18 a.m.

Judge to decide hearing

District Court Judge James Mahan will decide Tuesday when to hold a hearing that will determine Michael McDonald's future on the Las Vegas City Council.

The Las Vegas Ethics Review Board filed a complaint Monday seeking McDonald's removal from the council and the hearing must be held within 20 days from that date, or by Feb. 12.

On Thursday, Mahan asked attorneys for both sides and McDonald to meet with him at 10 a.m. Tuesday to determine what day would be best.

Weight-loss product maker strikes deal

The manufacturers of two weight-loss products that have allegedly caused serious health problems and even death have worked out a settlement with 14 Las Vegas residents who were prepared to go to trial next week.

Daniel Polsenberg, an attorney for American Home Products, declined to comment on the details of the settlement, citing a confidentiality agreement.

The settlement was reached late Wednesday night.

Prosecutors: Rudin should face contempt

Prosecutors upset with murder suspect Margaret Rudin believe she should be held in contempt of court for not providing her handwriting samples as ordered by a judge.

They also believe she should have to pay a $500 fine and spend 25 days in prison on top of whatever sentence she might receive in connection with the case.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Gary Guymon made those recommendations in court documents filed Thursday.

Rudin is suspected of shooting and decapitating Ronald Rudin, 64, in December 1994, and burning his remains.

In preparation for her trial next month, Guymon asked for Rudin's handwriting samples, but Rudin refused to provide them despite an order from District Judge Joseph Bonaventure.

Rudin said she was upset at her treatment in jail and media accounts of her plight.