Judge hears more testimony as lawyers seek to get boat crash case against George Pino moved, tossed

MIAMI — Miami-Dade Judge Marisa Tinkler Mendez heard motions for a second day in the vessel homicide case against real estate mogul George Pino.

Read more The Latest: DOJ opens investigation into E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of assault, source says

Leer en español

The judge is considering Pino’s request to move the case out of the county, dismiss the charges altogether and to suppress Pino’s statements.

On Thursday, Florida Fish and Wildlife Lt. Billy Thompson took the stand. He was the critical incident commander at the time of the crash.

Defense attorney Howard Srebnick questioned Thompson about whether Pino appeared impaired.

Thompson testified that Pino did not.

But the prosecution argued Thompson’s interaction with Pino occurred two hours after the crash.

Read more US military accuses Iran of ceasefire violation after Kuwait comes under missile attack

The case stems from a Labor Day weekend boating crash in 2022, when Pino was operating a boat carrying his wife, teenage daughter and several of her friends.

Investigators said the boat struck a channel marker in waters near Boca Chita Key, throwing passengers into the water, killing a teenage girl.

Investigators reported finding dozens of empty alcohol containers on board and said Pino was seen on video stating he had two beers that day.

Read more Humane Society of Broward seeks loving, permanent home for Diego, other furry friends