Ex-Hazelton Police Officer Convicted of Attempted Murder Postponed

POTTSVILLE — The sentencing of a former Hazleton police officer convicted of attempted murder and other charges has been postponed.

Ladell E. Hannon, 34, a former Hazleton resident, was scheduled to be sentenced Friday morning by Schuylkill County President Judge Jacqueline L. Russell.

However, the proceedings were continued after the judge announced changes to the pre-sentence investigation report, which led to changes in the sentencing rules for certain charges.

“The guidelines, particularly for attempted murder, have changed quite significantly,” Russell said.

On September 13, a jury found Hannon guilty of setting off an explosive device near the Kelaires home, where his estranged wife’s boyfriend lives, on December 21, 2021.

Hannon is represented by attorney Mark A. Hinrichs, Valley Center, and First Assistant District Attorney Michael J. Stein is representing the prosecution.

Russell said attorneys need time to review the guidelines. She did not name the new date of sentencing

The defendant, along with members of the victim’s family, were present in the courtroom on Friday.

After a weeklong trial, a jury on Sept. 13 found Hannon guilty of attempted murder, aggravated assault and numerous other felony and misdemeanor charges related to the bombing.

He remains in the Schuylkill County Jail.