Peterson Murder Case Hinges on Flimsy Evidence

Prosecution counting on 'beyond the grave' testimony from victim
By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff
Posted May 9, 2009 1:05 PM CDT
Peterson Murder Case Hinges on Flimsy Evidence
Former Bolingbrook, Ill., police sergeant Drew Peterson yells to reporters as he arrives at the Will County Courthouse in Joliet, Ill., Friday, May 8, 2009.   (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)

The murder case against Drew Peterson is likely to hinge on circumstantial evidence and hearsay testimony, the Chicago Tribune reports. Prosecutors will be relying on a new statute that some are calling “Drew’s Law,” which will allow victim Kathleen Savio to “testify from beyond the grave,” by making certain hearsay evidence admissible.  But Peterson’s attorney says the law is unconstitutional.

“They’ve got problems,” said Peterson’s lawyer. “They’re going to have problems with cause of death, as well as who done it.” Legal experts say the case may succeed anyway, because juries like circumstantial evidence, but that the lack of witnesses will hurt. Under the new law, the judge could admit Savio’s letters as well as, statements she allegedly made to friends and family. (More Drew Peterson stories.)

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