NewsBriefs: Thursday, June 20, 1996

Radiation spill in Morgan not hazardous Since the spillage consisted of P-32, which is a non-toxic material, it was able to be cleaned quickly, according to Senior Medical Health Physicist Eileen Normoyle. "The radiation was confined to one room and the lab contacted our office immediately to identify the substance," Normoyle said. "Because of these actions, the lab was able to be reopened very quickly." The University police report states that no people were injured. Normoyle said there was no hazard or risk in the room or the area surrounding it. P-32 chemicals were identified on the floor, which was easily cleaned said Normoyle. – Jaclyn LaPlaca MOVE jury still in deliberations after 5 days The MOVE jury was entering its sixth day of deliberation on Wednesday -- with no hint as to how many more days the eight men and women will negotiate the outcome of the case that began in 1985. The racially diverse jury of five women and three men began deliberations last week in the federal courthouse and has returned each day to continue working. The civil lawsuits contend that police used excessive force in trying to evict MOVE members from their heavily fortified rowhouse in West Philadelphia. Ramona Africa and the other plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages. Deliberations began after seven weeks of testimony ended June 7, in the U.S. District Court. Towards the finale of the arguments, opposing sides vied for the jury's attention with sound bytes and video images. Africa took the stand during the last day of arguments. – Jaclyn LaPlaca