Sure they did. They need race riots to win their case. They don't have much to work with. The facts are against them.
The more pressure they can put on the judge and jury, the better chance they have of hanging what could be an innocent man - for the sake of "the cause."
This error should have them off the case. The case should be taken elsewhere as well to guarantee (at least try) a fair trial.
It should end the case! How often have we read of dire reprobates being let off on "technicalities" ?