Gavel breaks, trial in doubt

The trial of suspected thief Bertram S. Haggins was scheduled to conclude today until an incident in the court room delayed the procedings. Judge Bert Urgerack accidentally broke the town's only gavel when calling the court to order this morning. According to the state law, the city has one week to replace the gavel or Haggins will be set free.

According to Vinland city clerk Blanch Swingline, ordering the gavel might take 5-7 business days. This allows only a small window for the city to finish the trial on time.