Mixed Verdict Delivered In Zaragoza Trial

A Washington County jury deliberated about nine hours before returning a mixed verdict in the case against Jose Zaragoza of Washington. Zaragoza was accused of strangling and attempting to kidnap the mother of their child. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the Giant Eagle in South Strabane Township in May of 2024. The jury returned a not guilty verdict on two counts, but rendered a deadlocked verdict on the remaining two charges. Zaragoza was acquitted of the kidnapping and one strangulation charge. The jury dead-lock on a strangulation and assault charge. The commonwealth must now decide whether to re-try him on the two deadlocked verdicts. District Attorney  Jason Walsh is considering his options for a retrial. Zaragoza remains in the Washington County Jail.