Ex-boxer accused of attempted rape in Muncie goes on trial

MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) – A trial is opening in Muncie for a 59-year-old former professional boxer facing charges that include attempted rape.

The Star Press reports the jury was selected Monday for the trial of Santiago Valdez, with opening arguments scheduled to begin Tuesday morning. He is accused of attacking a female acquaintance in her Muncie home in 2012, and he’s also charged with criminal confinement, intimidation and battery.

Mental health professionals have diagnosed Valdez as having schizophrenia, but found he was competent to stand trial. In January, the Indiana Court of Appeals upheld a judge’s ruling that he is not competent to act as his own attorney.

The newspaper says public defender Joel Wieneke will argue that Valdez isn’t guilty by reason of insanity.