Despite the LA Innocence Project's involvement, a former California prosecutor dismisses the chances of Scott Peterson receiving a retrial, citing the need for conclusive DNA evidence that was not present in the initial trial.
Twenty years after Scott Peterson's conviction for murdering his wife Laci and unborn child, the LA Innocence Project has taken up his case, hoping to secure a retrial based on new DNA testing. However, a former prosecutor from California has cast doubt on Peterson's prospects, emphasizing the stringent requirements for overturning a conviction.
On July 24, a judge authorized the DNA testing of a 15.5-inch duct tape recovered during Laci Peterson's autopsy in 2003. Pure Gold Forensics, Inc. will conduct the analysis along with other physical evidence that the judge approved.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
The LA Innocence Project, known for exonerating wrongfully convicted individuals, is spearheading Peterson's defense. However, former prosecutor Neama Rahmani, president of West Coast Trial Lawyers, believes Peterson's chances of a retrial are slim.
"It's unlikely that he will get a new trial," Rahmani stated, explaining that the duct tape must contain DNA evidence of another individual.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
Peterson's sister-in-law, Janey Peterson, who will appear in an upcoming Peacock documentary, speculates that Laci encountered burglars near their home and confronted them, resulting in her demise.
Laci Peterson disappeared on Christmas Eve 2002, and her body was discovered in the San Francisco Bay months later, near her unborn son's remains. Two hairs of Laci's found on pliers seized from Peterson's boat played a crucial role in his conviction.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
Prosecutors allege Peterson disposed of Laci's body using his boat, despite his claim of fishing in the area where her body washed ashore.
"Peterson admitted to fishing near where the body was found," Rahmani noted, questioning the improbability of such a coincidence.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
At the time of Laci's disappearance, Peterson was involved in an affair with massage therapist Amber Frey.
Rahmani believes Peterson's lack of remorse, avoidance of search efforts, and reckless behavior during his wife's absence provide ample evidence of his guilt.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
While acknowledging the LA Innocence Project's involvement, Rahmani emphasized the importance of concrete evidence for overturning a conviction.
"For the LA Innocence Project to be picking up Peterson's case, they must believe there is something here," he remarked.
Scott Peterson's Hopes for Retrial Dim as Former Prosecutor Expresses Unlikelihood
Peterson's original defense attorneys continue to maintain his innocence, and Rahmani concedes the possibility of a wrongful conviction.
"I'm not saying that it's impossible," he admitted. "But there's a ton of circumstantial evidence."
Prosecutors recently filed a 337-page document opposing the DNA testing motion, presenting overwhelming evidence against Peterson.
The upcoming Peacock documentary could potentially sway public opinion in Peterson's favor, according to Rahmani.
"Public opinion can make a difference one way or another," he stated, citing the impact of documentaries on high-profile cases.
However, the former prosecutor maintains that the judicial system will ultimately determine Peterson's fate, regardless of public sentiment.
"Every prosecutor in this country is elected or appointed by someone who was elected," he concluded.
