Judge refuses to release ‘Springfield Sam’ from jail

Kim Smith

Friday, Oct. 18, 2002 | 9:27 a.m.

The defense attorney for an 84-year-old reputed mob member accused of shooting up an auto dealership was unable to get his client released on his own recognizance Thursday.

Defense attorney James "Bucky" Buchanan had asked District Judge Michael Douglas to release "Springfield Sam" Manarite, citing his age, ill health and ties to the community.

A snowy-haired Manarite, who suffers from high blood pressure and arthritis among other things, had to be assisted to the defense table for the brief hearing.

He faces two counts of attempted murder with use of a deadly weapon and two other charges in connection with a September shooting at Astro Auto Sales.

Witnesses told police that Manarite opened fire because he was upset about a business transaction. One of the men was shot in the wrist and Manarite was shot in the shoulder when the alleged victim shot back.

Buchanan said Manarite is not receiving the medical care he should be in the Clark County Detention Center and as a result is "deteriorating." The attorney said his client has yet to recover from the severe loss of blood he suffered after being shot.

Had prosecutors been able to get their witnesses to testify at a preliminary hearing two weeks ago, Buchanan said, the charges against Manarite would likely have been dismissed and he would be a free man.

Instead, the witnesses didn't show up at the hearing and prosecutors obtained an indictment through a grand jury, Buchanan said.

"At this stage in his life he's going to appear in court," Buchanan said, noting Manarite's wife of 57 years was in the courtroom.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Victoria Villegas argued against Manarite's release, noting his extensive criminal history, which dates back to 1947. She also noted that he could have testified before the grand jury had he wanted to.

Douglas kept Manarite's bail at $100,000, causing Manarite to invoke his right to a speedy trial.

Manarite's trial will be held Nov. 12.

Following Manarite's hearing, his wife had to be escorted from the courtroom twice by a bailiff for violating a courthouse policy that prohibits inmates and audience members from interacting.