Synagogue-killing suspect denies guilt

PITTSBURGH — The man charged in the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre pleaded innocent to hate crimes and dozens of other counts Monday, but his new lawyer — a prominent death penalty litigator who represented one of the Boston Marathon bombers — signaled he might be open to a plea deal.

Robert Bowers, a truck driver who authorities say gunned down 11 people at Tree of Life Synagogue, appeared in federal court with attorney Judy Clarke, who expressed hope the case will be resolved without a trial.

Bowers, 46, of Baldwin, Pa., is accused of targeting worshippers from three Jewish congregations when he attacked Saturday, Oct. 27, during Sabbath services. Seven people were wounded, including five police officers.

Prosecutors in Pittsburgh have previously indicated their intent to seek the death penalty against Bowers, but a final decision rests with the U.S. attorney general.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti said in court that a trial could last about three weeks, not including any potential penalty phase.

Bowers has been placed in the Butler County Prison, about 35 miles north of the shooting scene.