CHEHALIS — A Lewis County deputy prosecutor says rape charges may have to be dismissed because the victim suffered a heart attack two weeks ago and her doctor says testifying could trigger another heart attack.
Joely O’Rourke told Judge Nelson Hunt she was not prepared for trial that was scheduled next week. The trial was pushed back for a sixth time.
The Chronicle reports 52-year-old Leo B. Bunker is charged with raping a Winlock woman in 2011.
While he’s been in jail, Bunker has had nearly $200,000 in medical bills for cancer treatment. The jail’s annual budget for inmates needing medical treatment is only $80,000.
Trial has been delayed for medical problems for the victim and defendant. A mistrial was declared earlier this year after the judge became ill.
