Florida

Florida Man Set for Trial in Pennsylvania Girl's 1984 Death

A Florida man is set to stand trial in the rape and slaying of a 14-year-old Pennsylvania girl in 1984.

Bucks County prosecutors contend 56-year-old George Shaw, of Geneva, drugged and suffocated Barbara Rowan inside a Bensalem apartment, then dumped her body along a highway.

He was arrested two years ago along with 53-year-old Robert Sanders. Sanders has since acknowledged helping Shaw transport the girl's body, and is expected to testify against Shaw. Sanders pleaded guilty in February to hindering Shaw's apprehension by previously giving police bad information. He's yet to be sentenced.

Defense attorney Louis Busico says Shaw "strongly maintains his innocence."

Shaw's bench trial before Bucks County Judge Wallace H. Bateman Jr. begins Tuesday. He's charged with criminal homicide, rape and possessing an instrument of crime.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us