Charges Reinstated in Racial Profiling Case

An appeals court in Trenton revived the most explosive case in the state’s racial profiling controversy, reinstating criminal charges against two state troopers accused of shooting three minority men two years ago. The action overturned a ruling by Superior Court Judge Andrew Smithson, who threw out charges against Troopers John Hogan and James Kenna because of errors by prosecutors. The judge also faulted former Atty. Gen. Peter Verniero, saying he bowed to political pressure in the controversy. Lawyers for Hogan and Kenna said they are considering appeals to the state Supreme Court.