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Police: A.J. Richardson back in jail after more bogus 911 calls

PITTSBURGH — A.J. Richardson’s bail was revoked Wednesday after he made more than a dozen prank 911 calls over the past several days, according to police.

In April, Richardson, who was once a candidate for mayor, and his wife were accused of making more than 100 bogus emergency phone calls from their Sheraden home.

They were charged with making false reports to police, disorderly conduct and conspiracy.

The Richardsons’ trial on those charges is scheduled for March 2.

Richardson, 38, was free on a nonmonetary bond, but Common Pleas Judge Anthony Mariani reversed that decision Wednesday.

Target 11 Investigator Rick Earle reported that police said 15 calls were made to 911 from Richardson's house phone from Friday to Tuesday, and 13 of them were hang-up calls.

On Wednesday afternoon, Earle talked with Felicia Richardson, her attorney and A.J.’s attorney.

“My entire family will continue to fight for our innocence. We are not behind these calls. My husband, myself nor my sons,” said Richardson’s wife, Felicia Richardson.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Detective Jim Glick testified that the bogus calls are wasting police resources, saying, “Mr. Richardson needs to be taken off the street before someone gets hurt.”

Calling the situation a public safety issue, the judge agreed with Glick and ordered Richardson jailed immediately.

Meanwhile, the Richardsons maintain their innocence and said they think their number is being spoofed.

“I find it appalling that trained detectives and police officers can't figure this out and this wasn't an option for them,” said Felicia Richardson.

In the past, A.J. Richardson has had some highly publicized criminal cases, including convictions for DUI, assault and resisting arrest.

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