Blair County Judge Jolene Kopriva granted yet another continuance in a case where the state is alleging a Tyrone doctor coerced juveniles into sexual acts in exchange for controlled substances and alcohol.
The three-day trail for Dr. Barry Bender was scheduled to begin today, but Kopriva granted defense attorney Thomas Dickey’s request for a continuance after learning Bender recently underwent a surgical proceeding.
Last month, Kopriva ordered the man to stand trial Aug. 5-8, stating she would only grant an extension in the case should Bender undergo the surgery.
On previous occasions, Kopriva ruled for time extensions because of Bender’s health. He has a history of heart problems.
Although a definite trial date has not been set, court officials believe the case will go to a jury in September.
Bender is charged with a slew of crimes against children including involuntary sexual deviate intercourse, a felony, solicitation, corruption of minors and indecent assault, as well as a number of drug-related crimes, such as illegal distribution and possession.
If convicted, he could face more than 90 years in prison.
The charges stem from incidents that occurred at Bender’s Pennsylvania Avenue, Tyrone apartment between 1998 and 2000.
Police said Bender, and an accomplice, Gilbert Stevenson Jr., would entice young boys to his apartment and exchange alcohol, marijuana and cocaine for sexual acts.
Stevenson went on trial in Blair County in March, and before the proceedings were over, entered a guilty plea to charges before the jury deliberated the case.
In exchange for his plea agreement, Stevenson said he would testify against Bender during the doctor’s trial.
Stevenson will not be sentenced until Bender’s charges are disposed of.
