Psychologist testifies that Rodriguez worried about being released

Fargo, N.D. (AP) A Minnesota prison psychologist took the witness stand today in the trial of Alfonso Rodriguez Junior.

Rita St. George is a psychologist at the medium security prison in Moose Lake, Minnesota. She says Rodriguez asked to see her in January 2003 and told her he was frightened about being released.

He had been serving time for assaults on women.

St. George said a follow-up interview in February showed Rodriguez was doing better. But she wished she had raised more questions about his release.

Under questioning from prosecutor Norm Anderson, St. George said Rodriguez did not tell her in February that he wanted to stay in prison.

St. George is among the last witnesses to be called by attorneys for the 53-year-old Rodriguez of Crookston, Minnesota.

Jurors could start deliberations later this week over whether he should be sentenced to death or life in prison for the killing of Dru Sjodin (shuh-DEEN').

(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-18-06 1105CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list