Convicted killer Scott Peterson appeared before a San Mateo County judge via Zoom as his legal team, led by the Los Angeles Innocence Project, sought approval for DNA testing on key evidence they argue could lead to a new trial. Peterson, convicted of killing his pregnant wife Laci Peterson and their unborn son Connor in 2002, has consistently maintained his innocence.
Paula Mitchell, director of the LA Innocence Project, is urging Judge Elizabeth Hill to authorize the testing of several items, including a blood-stained mattress found in a burned-out van near the Modesto airport. Mitchell emphasized that Modesto police failed to investigate whether the van fire was connected to Laci Peterson’s case. Authorities, however, have dismissed any link between the blaze and the murder.
The defense also seeks to test evidence recovered near the bodies of Laci and Connor, whose remains surfaced along the Richmond shoreline in 2003, as well as items tied to a burglary across the street from the Petersons’ Modesto home. Peterson’s legal team insists that all requested evidence is available, well-preserved, and maintains an unbroken chain of custody suitable for DNA testing.
“This case has always been about getting to the truth, and DNA testing can provide answers that weren’t available during the original trial,” Mitchell stated.
Prosecutors oppose the motion, arguing that existing evidence already proved Peterson’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. They point to the jury’s 2004 conviction, which resulted in Peterson being sentenced to life in prison without parole. The trial, relocated from Modesto to San Mateo County due to extensive pretrial publicity, included testimony that Peterson took Laci’s body aboard his boat and dumped it in San Francisco Bay on Christmas Eve 2002.
Peterson, who has attended recent hearings from Mule Creek State Prison via Zoom, maintains that he was fishing in the bay on the day of Laci’s disappearance. His defense team asserts that DNA testing could uncover evidence implicating other suspects or provide critical context about items near the crime scene.
The case, which gripped national attention from the moment Laci disappeared, continues to polarize public opinion. During the initial investigation, Peterson gave interviews, including a now-famous sit-down with Court TV anchor Ted Rowlands, to plead his innocence. Despite his efforts, mounting evidence led to his arrest and subsequent conviction.
Mitchell and the LA Innocence Project remain hopeful that Judge Hill will grant their motion, emphasizing the importance of utilizing modern forensic techniques to ensure justice. “We’re asking for the chance to use tools that weren’t available two decades ago. This isn’t about revisiting old arguments; it’s about finding the truth through science,” Mitchell said.
The hearing represents a pivotal moment for Peterson, whose life sentence leaves him few remaining avenues for appeal. As the courtroom battle continues, the legacy of the high-profile case remains a stark reminder of its profound impact on the justice system and public consciousness.
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