Scott Peterson continues to fight for new trial. Laci’s mom says ‘We endure the pain’
Convicted murderer and former Modesto resident Scott Peterson, 51, filed a motion this week asking prosecutors for over 600 items of material, further prolonging his years-long bid for a new trial, according to various news sources.
The motion came after San Mateo County Superior Court Judge Elizabeth Hill rejected DNA testing for 13 items his defense requested. One item was accepted by Hill — a piece of duct tape found on a piece of Laci Peterson’s clothing after her body was discovered in April 2003.
Peterson is serving a life sentence for the murder of Laci and the couple’s unborn son, Conner. The search for Laci captivated the nation when she was reported missing. Peterson was convicted in 2004 and sentenced to death. In 2020, Peterson was resentenced to life in prison.
Peterson’s new defense team, the L.A. Innocence Project, has reinvigorated his efforts for a new trial, filing several motions this year. This recent motion appeared to have annoyed prosecutors, who have been fighting to keep Peterson behind bars for two decades, and worn down the resolve of Laci’s family.
“They’re asking for anything and everything but the kitchen sink. How is that reasonable,” said Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Ahnna Reicks, Sacramento channel KCRA reported.
Laci’s mother, Sharon Rocha, delivered a letter read at the hearing, saying that attending hearing after hearing is becoming tiring for her and her family.
“We endure the pain of reliving Laci’s murder ripping the scab from the wound with each attempt (Peterson) makes for freedom,” the letter reads. “Scott Peterson continually claims to have new evidence that exonerates him, but none has ever been produced. He continues and is allowed to file claim after claim. I believe this is not about proving his innocence but, instead, his relentless pursuit of freedom from prison.”
Because of the case’s long timeline, prominence and Peterson’s multiple appeals and court appearances, there are thousands of pages of discovery items. Peterson’s defense has the ability to scour these and bring Peterson back into a courtroom for months, if not years,
Peterson’s defense continued its “orange van theory,” which is based on the idea Laci was abducted by being pushed into a van at La Loma Park while walking her dog. The van was found with a bloodstained mattress inside, which already was tested for DNA when detectives were investigating Laci’s murder.
A DA’s Office response stated that a male profile was developed and that “there is no legitimate DNA test that will turn the male profile into a match for Laci.”
The approved DNA testing on the duct tape item will be tested by a Redlands-based lab called Pure Gold Forensics. Both sides agreed to this testing.
Hill is required to provide a written ruling on the defense’s motion for further items within 90 days.
This story was originally published July 17, 2024 at 1:22 PM.
