CINCINNATI (WXIX) – The family of Gino Booker spoke exclusively with FOX19 Now after Angelo Howard was released from prison, saying they feel the justice system has let them down.
Howard pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting of Booker and felonious assault against Tim Canady as part of a plea deal with Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich. He was released for time served after 18 years in prison.
Background on the case
Police said Howard went on a “reign of terror” in 2002 that included robbery, kidnapping, torture and murder. A cold case team brought charges against him in 2008. He was eventually convicted of killing three men, but those convictions relied heavily on testimony from men who received reduced prison sentences in exchange for testifying.
Hamilton County prosecutors had for years fought any attempt to release Howard, standing by the original charges and warning his release could endanger the public. Pillich, who has promised a thorough review of cases like Howard’s, signed off on the deal.
Family reaction
Booker’s sister, Cynthia Bingham, addressed Howard directly during an interview with FOX19 Now…