Sentencing postponed for former MPD officer Cates

MILWAUKEE (AP) -- The federal sentencing hearing for former Milwaukee police officer Ladmarald Cates was postponed, after Cates fired his attorney Wednesday morning, April 11th.

A federal jury convicted Cates of violating a woman's civil rights by sexually assaulting her after he responded to her 911 call.
Forty-four-year-old Ladmarald Cates faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Jurors deliberated three hours before delivering a split verdict in the case. They found Cates not guilty of using a firearm in a crime of violence.

Cates said the woman had sex with him willingly after he arrived at her home in July 2010. The woman testified that Cates assaulted her.

The judge ruled Wednesday that Cates has the right to find a new lawyer. The sentencing will be rescheduled after he does so.