FALL RIVER, Mass. – A Massachusetts judge says she found no ethical violations by prosecutors in the Aaron Hernandez murder case, but she did impose a formal gag order to protect the ex-New England Patriot's right to a fair trial.
Hernandez's attorneys had accused the state of allowing leaks and prejudicial out-of-court statements. They also sought a gag order from Judge Susan Garsh.
They claimed the prosecution orchestrated a "publicity stunt" last year when Miami Dolphin Michael Pouncey was served with a subpoena after a game at Gillette Stadium. Prosecutors denied that and say they have leaked nothing.
Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to the murder of semi-professional football player Odin Lloyd.
Garsh's order, entered Thursday, demands both sides take "reasonable precautions" against prejudicial disclosures and says prosecutors must investigate any reports of leaks.
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