PRINCETON, W.Va. — Lawyers representing a Mercer County man facing attempted murder and robbery charges have requested a change of venue for the trial.
Wayne Hartley, 44, of Bluefield, allegedly was involved in beating his mother, 81-year-old Patricia Hartley, at her Wythe Avenue home on Jan. 20.
Angela Graham, 41, of Bluefield, was involved in the beating. Graham beat Patricia Hartley with a marble rolling pin before pushing her down a flight of stairs. She then hit Patricia Hartley with a baseball bat and cut her wrist with a paring knife.
According to Bluefield Police Department detectives, the motive was to steal Patricia Hartley’s debit card and use it to purchase drugs.
Investigators said Wayne Hartley was at home and aware of the attack but did nothing.
Wayne Hartley’s attorneys said Friday the change is needed because the amount of publicity the case has received.
Graham pleaded guilty May 15 to attempted murder and first-degree robbery charges.
According to the attorneys representing Wayne Hartley, a survey of potential jurors could begin July 28. The trial is scheduled to begin in September.
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Janet Williamson objected to delaying the trial.
Another pretrial hearing to consider the venue motion will be held in late August.