Hearing delayed in fatal robbery

Monday, Jan. 20, 2003 | 9:53 a.m.

An alleged bank robber charged with murder in the officer-involved shooting of his friend told a Justice of the Peace Friday that he has every right to a speedy preliminary hearing, while his lawyer sought a delay.

Police say Maxey Taylor, 23, and Robert Nusbaum, 34, of Palmdale, Calif., robbed a Bank of America branch at 801 Nellis Blvd. on New Year's Eve. Nusbaum was shot and killed by police officers in the pursuit.

Taylor is charged in the death under a Nevada law that allows principals in a crime that results in death to be charged with murder.

During a hearing Friday, Taylor's attorney, Public Defender Howard Brooks, asked to have the preliminary hearing, which determined whether there is enough evidence to take the case to trial, delayed until after a coroner's inquest verdict is returned. Taylor had signed a written agreement postponing the preliminary hearing, Brooks said.

Taylor said he wanted to proceed with the preliminary hearing Friday, but Justice of the Peace Tony Abbatangelo continued the hearing until Feb. 3.

Taylor faces five felony counts, which include second-degree murder, burglary while in possession of a deadly weapon and robbery.