LACI'S 'KILLER' HUBBY UNCORKS NEW WHINE

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June 27, 2003 -- MODESTO, Calif. - A cocky Scott Peterson took a verbal swipe at prosecutors yesterday, blaming them for delays in his double-murder trial that won't begin for several more months.

Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Al Girolami set Peterson's preliminary hearing for Sept. 9, pushing it back from its originally scheduled date of July 16.

Peterson, 30, and his lawyer Mark Geragos complained that prosecutors are too slow to turn over evidence. When Girolami procedurally asked Peterson if he agreed to the delay, the accused killer seized his chance to pop off.

"I think we're forced to [delay the preliminary hearing] without the information coming from the prosecution," sniped Peterson, who wore a tan suit and short haircut to court yesterday. "It's not my wish, but yes [to the delay to Sept. 9]."

Peterson is accused of killing his wife Laci Peterson, who vanished on Christmas Eve, and their unborn son Connor. Howard Breuer

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Police last week contacted two women living in Laci Peterson's neighborhood who also were pregnant with their first babies Christmas Eve.

Like Laci Peterson, both have dark brown hair and regularly walked their dogs -- but neither did that day, they said.

Two other women, also neighbors, say Scott Peterson contacted them on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as he spread the word about his missing wife. They also told their stories to police.

One said Peterson cried, and she hugged him to show support. But she said she since has wondered if they were tears of sorrow or guilt.

The other woman said Peterson appeared wracked with anxiety as he let another man do the talking.

Police spokesman Doug Ridenour, citing a court-imposed gag order, refused to comment Wednesday.

Scott Peterson has been charged in the deaths of his wife and their unborn son, Conner. He faces the death penalty if convicted.

Three of the women -- Leslie Streeter, Janet Kenworthy and Joan Barnett Lee -- work in various departments at The Bee. The fourth, Jill Lear, is employed by a private social services company.

The women's accounts could play a part in court if attorneys bring up reports by people who said they saw Laci Peterson walking her dog the day her family reported her missing.

Scott Peterson told police he left their Covena Avenue home about 9:30 a.m. to go fishing in San Francisco Bay, and that his wife had planned to walk their dog in nearby East La Loma Park. A neighbor found the golden retriever less than an hour later, its muddy leash attached, and returned it to the Petersons' yard.

The bodies of mother and fetus washed up along the bay in mid-April. Police arrested Scott Peterson a few days later.

Streeter said Scott Peterson and another man came to her door between 7 and 8 p.m. Christmas Eve. She didn't know Brent Rocha, Laci Peterson's brother, at the time, but figured he was the other man after seeing numerous reports about the case.

A Rocha family spokeswoman said family members would not comment because the gag order extends to witnesses and potential witnesses.

"Scott didn't say anything," Streeter recalled. "He just stood there; he looked kind of stressed out."

The other man explained that they were looking for the woman in the picture, Streeter said. She said Scott Peterson was in the picture as well.

"After about an hour, we heard search planes going over the park," she said. "That's when we knew something was terribly amiss."

Streeter called police the next day, more to offer help than to report the encounter, she said, and an officer called back to take a statement.

The next day -- Christmas -- Kenworthy happened upon Scott Peterson as both walked their dogs in the park, where authorities and volunteers already were searching.

"He reaches in his coat, pulls out a flier and says, 'My wife's missing,'" Kenworthy recalled. "He about broke down in front of me. I did see tears, retain-your-composure efforts."

Kenworthy was especially touched, she said, to learn that the missing woman was pregnant. She said she gave Peterson a hug.

A police investigator tracked down Kenworthy last week and asked questions about her dog-walking routine. She has a white husky named Aroo; the Petersons' dog, McKenzie, is a golden retriever.

"I think there is so much pressure to make this case tight, (police) don't want to go to court and say they didn't follow up on all calls," Kenworthy said.

Also last week, an investigator questioned Lee and Lear, both of whom were pregnant at Christmas time.

Peterson was 5-foot-1, while Lee is 5-foot-5 and Lear, 5-foot-7 1/2. Peterson was 27, Lee is 33 and Lear, 36.

Lee was only four months along in December. She had walked her chocolate Labrador retriever, Kramer, in the neighborhood in November, but quit when the weather turned colder and was not out on Christmas Eve, she said.

Lear said she was six months pregnant at that time, but hardly showed. Her hair color is close to Laci Peterson's. And their dogs were about the same size, although Lear's Australian shepherd, Maitland, was mostly black with some white and copper.

The park was her favorite destination while running and walking the previous seven years with Maitland, who died in February. But she clearly remembers not being out on Christmas Eve.

Both Lee and Lear quit walking as the missing-woman case was splashed across newspapers and television screens all over North America.

"I remember being freaked out about that," Lee said. "We didn't know if there was some crazy person abducting pregnant women."

Said Lear: "It made everyone more cautious. Things like that are a little too close to home."

Both resumed walking, pushing strollers, after delivering their babies -- and after police made it clear that their investigation pointed to no one other than Scott Peterson. But they prefer to walk with their husbands.

"I did give (Peterson) a hug," she recalled. "When someone approaches you and says, 'My wife's missing, and she's pregnant, too,' it makes your heart squeeze tight."

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MODESTO, Calif. (AP) - The judge in the Laci Peterson murder case reaffirmed his gag order today, but refused to hold contempt proceedings against the Stanislaus County district attorney for speaking publicly about the case.

Judge Al Girolami also sealed a search warrant for Scott Peterson's cellular phone records and postponed a preliminary hearing until September, at which time he will hear testimony to determine whether Peterson will stand trial on two counts of murder in the deaths of his wife, Laci Peterson, and their unborn son.

The judge rejected claims by defense lawyer Mark Geragos that District Attorney James Brazelton breached ethical lines when he said he would seek an open preliminary hearing to show the public the evidence amassed against Peterson.

Geragos said Brazelton violated the court's gag order when he told The Modesto Bee that he chose not to seek a grand jury indictment in favor of the preliminary hearing so he could dispel rumors and ``open some eyes.''

The remarks did not rise to an ``extremely egregious or prejudicial'' level, Girolami said. At most the comments would result in a fine and the judge said he didn't want to take up the matter before the trial, which could be more than a year away.

Geragos also lost an attempt to have the lawyer for his client's former mistress found in contempt for repeatedly appearing on television talk shows to discuss the case. Girolami said the gag order did not apply to attorney Gloria Allred, who represents Amber Frey, the massage therapist Peterson was romantically involved with before his wife vanished.

Bolstered by the ruling, Allred amplified her rhetoric outside the courthouse, calling it a ``pathetic loss'' for Geragos.

``I think Mr. Geragos knows if he wants war with me, he gets it,'' she said. ``I'm not the shy type.''

Geragos had asked the judge to lift the gag order because he can't respond to rumors or evidence leaked in the case.

The judge has barred lawyers, witnesses and investigators from speaking about the case to prevent evidence leaks and gossip that could make it difficult to find fair jurors.

Peterson, 30, a former fertilizer salesman, has pleaded innocent to two counts of murder and could face the death penalty if convicted. He was arrested after the remains of his wife and unborn son washed ashore in San Francisco Bay in April near where he said he was fishing Christmas Eve when she vanished.

Girolami added a search warrant of Peterson's phone records to about a dozen other court records that have been sealed, including autopsy results, wiretap applications and other police records. The court records are sealed from the public but available to lawyers.

Girolami set the preliminary hearing for Sept. 9 after prosecutors said witnesses were not available when it was originally scheduled next month. Defense lawyers agreed to the change.

If the hearing is open to the public, it will be the first time evidence in the case has been discussed in open court. The judge will hear arguments Aug. 14 on whether to close the courtroom.

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Sept. 9 is the new date for a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence to try Scott Peterson for the murders of his wife, Laci, and their unborn son, Conner. Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Al Girolami granted the delay today after asking Peterson is he agreed to postponing the hearing.

Peterson's attorney, Mark Geragos, said the delay was necessary because there is still some evidence that hasn't been shown to the defense team.

Laci Peterson was nearly eight-months pregnant when she was reported missing on Christmas Eve. Her body and that of Conner were found in early April on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay.

The hearing today also covered whether a search warrant should remains sealed. The warrant was issued after Peterson's arrest April 18 just north of San Diego. Girolami ruled that the warrant should remain sealed. He has said that opening the warrant and other documents could make it difficult for Peterson to get a fair trial.

Eight more search warrants are set to be unsealed July 8 unless an appeals court reverses Superior Court Judge Roger M. Beauchesne's order.........

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A judge is not likely to order a contempt of court hearing for Stanislaus County District Attorney James Brazelton this morning, legal experts predict. Defense attorney Mark Geragos has asked Judge Al Girolami to hold Brazelton in contempt for violating a gag order in the double-murder case against Scott Peterson, who is accused of killing his wife, Laci, and unborn son, Conner.

If that happens, Brazelton could get a reprimand, be fined or even spend a day behind bars. But experts said the chance of censure is slim.

"Judges generally don't hold prosecutors in contempt," said Bennett Gershman, a former New York City prosecutor who teaches at Pace University Law School and has written textbooks about prosecutorial misconduct.

"It sounds like the type of violation that the judge won't find to be in contempt," said George Bird, a certified criminal law specialist and defense attorney in Torrance.

Girolami two weeks ago forbade attorneys on both sides from discussing evidence in the case. He also could rule today on another defense motion to lift the gag order.

Brazelton last week told The Bee he wants to take the case to a preliminary hearing, rather than to a grand jury where he could lay out his evidence behind closed doors.

He said the move is needed to because leaks to the media and speculation on television talk shows force prosecutors to "spend all our time running down this phony baloney stuff they throw up."

But it will be up to the judge to decide if Brazelton was merely talking about the process or flouting his order by talking about the evidence.

"It's not a clear, unequivocal, unambiguous reference to the evidence in violation of the judge's order," Gershman said.

The California Bar Association doesn't keep statistics on contempt of court findings, but will investigate if attorneys are held in contempt for ethical violations. Brazelton has no public record of discipline.

The defense also has alleged "grave prosecutorial misconduct" in the interception of 71 phone calls in a wiretap, because three calls between Scott Peterson and his attorney were re-corded............

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The manager of a Modesto hotel said he turned away Scott Peterson's parents after his father criticized Laci Peterson's family on a nationally televised talk show. "I didn't want to take care of them anymore," said Brad Saltzman, general manager of the Red Lion Hotel. He made it clear that his stance did not reflect that of hotel ownership.

Saltzman said he was disturbed when Lee Peterson, Scott Peterson's father, complained on TV that his daughter-in-law's family burglarized his son's home. On May 30, her family removed truckloads of items that they said belonged to her.

Lee Peterson said on "Larry King Live," in part, "Instead of grieving, Sharon apparently planned this break-in."

That touched a nerve, Saltzman said. When Jackie Peterson, Scott Peterson's mother, called later to book a room, he said he suggested another hotel would have a better rate. They haven't spoken since.

Lee Peterson has said that his son's defense team has asked him not to talk to reporters.

Saltzman had provided a banquet room for a search command center for three weeks in late December and early January and continues to provide interview rooms for TV networks.

Saltzman said he had allowed the Petersons, who live near San Diego, to stay for free at the Red Lion until their son was charged with the murders of Laci and Conner Peterson. After that, they paid a discounted rate, said Saltzman, who has been at the hotel 18 months.

He said the Petersons stayed about a half-dozen times for a total of about 10 nights. Members of their extended family also stayed, Saltzman said.

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COMPTON, Calif. (AP) - An aspiring rapper was convicted Wednesday of murder and aggravated mayhem in the April 2002 slaying of a woman who authorities say had her chest ripped open and one of her lungs partially eaten. A Superior Court jury deliberated less than an hour before returning the guilty verdicts against Antron Singleton, 26. Jurors were to meet again Thursday to begin considering Singleton's plea of insanity at the time of the murder. Prosecutors said they are not seeking the death penalty.

The body of Tynisha Ysais, who was stabbed to death, was found in the southeast Los Angeles apartment she shared with Singleton. Authorities testified that the 21-year-old woman's chest had been cut open and her right lung, which had been removed, appeared chewed and torn.........

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June 26 (AP) — The judge in the Laci Peterson murder case reaffirmed his gag order Thursday, but refused to hold contempt proceedings against the Stanislaus County district attorney for speaking publicly about the case.

The remarks did not rise to an "extremely egregious or prejudicial" level, Girolami said. At most the comments would result in a fine and the judge said he didn't want to take up the matter before the trial, which could be more than a year away.

Bolstered by the ruling, Allred amplified her rhetoric outside the courthouse, calling it a "pathetic loss" for Geragos.

"I think Mr. Geragos knows if he wants war with me, he gets it," she said. "I'm not the shy type."

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OMG - what a good letter to the editor. THAT in a nutshell is about the size of it. I think this Judge has Geragos completely figured out!! Good for Gloria Allred challenging him on the Courthouse steps. Wonder how he likes his own medicine??? LOL

The look on Peterson's face is one of subdued "extreme" rage. It probably won't be too hard to push his buttons. Just think what went on behind closed doors on Covena Avenue.!!

The look on Peterson's face is one of subdued "extreme" rage.

I have to disagree, CO. I saw this pic on last night's thread, and seeing it again just reaffirms my first impression: He looks happy. I'd agree with "smirk" because I am aware of his comment and context.

"Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people."

— Admiral Hyman G. Rickover (1900-1986).

Just a question:

Yesterday, it was discussed somewhat on Greta and LKL, that the Rocha family has said they prefer NOT to have the trial televised.

One of the commentators, can't remember which one, said the Judges lean toward the victim's family in making the decision.

Has anyone heard anything further? I know the Judge should rule on it before the Sept. 9th Hearing. I just wondered if anyone heard any comments from anyone about the liklihood that the Judge will ban camera's in the courtroom.

Yesterday, it was discussed somewhat on Greta and LKL, that the Rocha family has said they prefer NOT to have the trial televised.

I did not see any of those shows last night, but I watched the Rocha interview with Katie Couric. On that program Sharon Rocha did in fact say they do not want the proceedings televised. She said it feels too personal to have splashed all over. However, she said they do not have any say in the matter. (Whether unbeknownst to her the victim's family's wishes are taken into account I do not know, but that is what she said.)

Thanks, cooper, I remember her saying that. It is selfish on my part, because I want to see it for myself, and not rely on a reporter to tell us what happened that day in court.

In the cobwebs of my mind, I think I heard some time ago that Garagos does not want cameras. Guess we will see.

Really?? You think he looks happy?? Look how his eyes are sort of blazing. He looks peed off to me. I agree he does smirk and before he was arrested in many instances he appeared to be smirking. But I definitely think he HATES jail and doesn't think he should be there. Sort of like Simpson, pathological liars, at some point believe their own lies.

hehehe - I wonder if the New York Post will be getting a call from Lee Peterson?? I guess now the NYP has a personal vendetta against his son!!

Regarding cameras in the courtroom for the trial... My own personal opinion is that so many people in the USA have been very much involved emotionally with the loss of Laci and Conner that it would be an injustice to all of us for no cameras...Since the beginning of this whole thing all has been kept from us and sealed. I think this is an unfair situation because we as citizens had the right to so many documents but as stated have been sealed. I sympathize with the Rochas for their feelings of not wanting it televised but we too need closure and by being able to see the actual trail and not just what is reported in the media is fair and just to us the citizens of USA

Hehehe..I like your thread title.

When I heard SP's little 'outburst' yesterday, I was thinking OUT LOUD, who does he think he is; part of the dream team? lol

I hope he keeps it up, too. He's looking more and more sure of himself, too cocky and arrogant, too.

Thanks for the pings, too.

Hi Neenah..I know I'm a little late but I saw most of the shows last night and most of the talking heads for the most part agreed that the judge will more than likely allow cameras at the trial reguardless of the Rochas pleas..Saying that the accused has a right to a a fair trial in a public forum would over-ride victims wishes.

Good points and we should not forget it is the "People v. Peterson". Rochas can can have a very private civil suit if they wish to gain control of Laci's estate.

Just to be clear: I was not posting my thoughts on cameras in the courtroom, just answering someone's question if the Rochas had in fact expressed that they don't want them.

lol...have to thank NY Post on some of their titles... they are at times, real kickers... ;o)

your welecome, and my pleasure...

39 posted on 06/28/2003 6:48:15 AM PDT by runningbear (Lurkers beware, Freeping is public opinions based on facts, theories, and news online.......)

I think peterson would do great on the stage floor if needed, geragoe got him all confident, and you know the DA would be looking for the opportune time to unwind him, and fizzle him out..... (well, if I had the ammo, I would....hummm, better yet, lets now get Allred to do it...lol...)

40 posted on 06/28/2003 6:50:25 AM PDT by runningbear (Lurkers beware, Freeping is public opinions based on facts, theories, and news online.......)

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