Accused Killer Testifies in Murder Trial of Hazleton Clerk
Hazleton, PA — The murder trial of Jafet De Jesus Rodriguez, 44, resumed in Hazleton this week, revealing intricate details of a robbery-turned-homicide that shook the local community. Rodriguez faces serious charges, including criminal homicide and robbery, following the brutal killing of Ashokkumar Patel, a clerk at Craig’s Food Mart, on December 12, 2020.
A Night of Gambles and Fatal Decisions
During the trial’s third day, significant testimony was unveiled, exposing Rodriguez’s gambling habits and his potential motive for the crime. According to Hazleton police Detective Ryan Mariano, Rodriguez admitted to frequenting the Craig’s Food Mart to play gambling machines. On the day of the incident, he allegedly lost money before leaving for a drug deal.
"Rodriguez described himself as a gambler," Mariano testified. "He had previously lost a considerable amount but won about $3,000 a few weeks prior to the shooting." Following his losses, Rodriguez reportedly left the convenience store around the time of the fatal incident.
Evidence and Connections to the Crime Scene
The investigation led authorities to Rodriguez’s residence, where they recovered various cellphones and nearly $2,900 in cash. Notably, one of Rodriguez’s phones pinged near the scene of the crime shortly before the shooting, establishing a connection between him and the incident.
Moreover, GPS tracking indicated that after the robbery, his phone returned to his home and then to his car wash, where police discovered clothing items consistent with those worn by the shooter—specifically a red and orange sweatshirt, gloves, and a mask. A bloodstain on the sweatshirt contained DNA from both Rodriguez and the victim, Patel.
Additional Testimony Raises Questions
Former worker Angel Rivera testified regarding his past relationship with Rodriguez, stating he had used a .40-caliber Glock pistol as collateral for a loan. This weapon is believed to be the one used in Patel’s murder, although it has never been recovered by authorities.
The courtroom momentarily shifted into contention, as Rodriguez’s defense attorney questioned Rivera’s credibility, suggesting he might be trying to deflect blame. “Didn’t you rob Craig’s Market and kill Mr. Patel?” attorney Joseph F. Sklarosky Sr. inquired, prompting objections from the prosecution.
As the trial progresses, Rodriguez faces multiple serious charges, including theft, drug trafficking, and conspiracy. The case is set to conclude next week, with the community anxiously awaiting the jury’s decision.
This story will be updated as further developments unfold in the trial.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.