Prosecutor Angry Over Murder Suspect's Low Bail

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WBZ-AM/AP) - A Massachusetts prosecutor is expressing outrage over what he considers low bail for a murder suspect.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni told The Republican newspaper on Thursday that the $50,000 bail granted by a judge this week to Rafael Martinez sets a "terrifying precedent."

Martinez must wear a GPS device if he makes bail, but Gulluni still fears he will flee.Martinez is charged with murder in connection with the October 2016 shooting of Eddie Olivo in Springfield.

Prosecutors say the men knew each other and the shooting stemmed from a dispute over $30,000 that Martinez owed Olivo's girlfriend.

The victim was shot seven times in his vehicle in the driveway of Martinez's home.

Martinez's lawyer says Olivo was armed and surveillance video shows the shooting was clearly self-defense.

Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno also expressed concerned about the low bail.

"Once again, a judge shows that he could really care less about our Springfield residents, neighborhoods and business community," he said.



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