On Monday, the State Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of Scott Peterson. The death sentence has been overturned as the trial judge went on to dismiss the jurors who are against capital punishment. The Jurors were not asked or informed about anything regarding whether they are ready to keep their views aside regarding the concept of capital punishment. Peterson has been charged for murders that he committed in 2002 where he killed his pregnant wife and her fetus. Their bodies were discovered four months after their disappearance in San Francisco.
What ruling did the Supreme Court pass?
In 1968, the US Supreme Court passed a ruling stating that “the jurors may not be excused for the opposition to capital punishment but the views which render them to unable to fairly come up with the decision with respect to the oath”. If people against the death penalty are a part of the Jury but can keep their views aside according to the situation where the penalty is imposed, then the decision will be impartial according to Justice Leondra Kruger.
Why was the case transferred?
The case was transferred from Stanislaus County to San Mateo as the original site failed to come up with a fair trial. The prosecution can either convince the new jury to decide on Scott Peterson’s death trial for life imprisonment without any parole. Peterson has denied guilt and his lawyers say that they have new evidence that will clear his name. The jurors stated that they have been exposed to publicity. But, the judge stated that the only way the case will not be in headlines is if it is sent to Mars. After a trial in San Mateo County, around 45% of the jurors thought that Peterson was guilty. People were cheering as they expected that the court will declare him guilty. But, the judge has put a hold as Delucchi did not follow legal standards to dismiss the jurors.
Is Scott Peterson really guilty?
In 2004, Peterson was convicted for the murder of his wife Laci. She was eight months pregnant with her unborn baby Conner. Their bodies were found near the shore where Petersen went fishing. Although there was no physical evidence, Amber Frey came forward and testified that she had an affair with Peterson. On 30th December, she contacted the police saying that Peterson never informed her that he was married. She got to know from her friend that he was married. She said that this situation might be related to his wife’s disappearance. The whole town was curious and filed a lawsuit against him. The case is called People versus Peterson. The judge said that a fair decision will be made. But, only after proper evaluation of all the testimonies and witnesses was done properly. We will keep you updated about the case. Until then, stay tuned and stay safe.