The parents of former Penn State football player Chris Baker have hired a new attorney to represent him in the trials connected with the two assault incidents in which he has been implicated during the past year.
Jackie and Marion Baker, the defensive tackle's parents, hired State College attorney and adjunct Penn State professor Tony De Boef last week, De Boef said yesterday. Attorney Karen Muir was representing Baker on charges stemming from an incident at downtown apartment complex Meridian II, 646 E. College Ave., as well as an altercation at the HUB-Robeson Center on Oct. 7.
"We just did what's best for Chris," said Jackie Baker, who declined to comment further.
De Boef said he was approached last week by Baker's parents.
"I honestly don't even have the police reports at this time," he said.
Both of Baker's cases have been continued until the June term of court. His jury selections were scheduled for yesterday; however, they did not move forward.
De Boef did not comment specifically on the change in representation.
"You think ... when you're in trouble, like if you're sick, you'll consult with a number of doctors. They're just talking to a different attorney," De Boef said. "This case is a year old. You think it's kind of like every four years you elect a new president."
Baker was charged last April with a felony charge of burglary and misdemeanor criminal trespass, simple assault and harassment in connection with the fight at the Meridian. Police said several football players were involved in the apartment invasion and following altercation, according to court documents.
Baker also faces charges of aggravated assault, a first-degree felony; harassment and stalking, a summary offense; and misdemeanor charges of simple assault and disorderly conduct stemming from the October fight at the HUB. The victim in the fight, an out-of-town fraternity member, was punched and kicked while on the floor, according to court documents.
Three other former football players have been charged for their alleged roles in the fight, including linebacker Navorro Bowman, defensive tackle Phillip Taylor and cornerback Knowledge Timmons, who faces charges for his behavior after the altercation.
Muir did not return phone calls or e-mails for comment by press time yesterday.
