The Associated Press is reporting that the D.A. in the Laci Peterson case is likely to seek the death penalty against Scott Peterson.

We doubt the decision will be made today. Hopefully, the prosecutors will meet with defense counsel and allow them an opportunity to argue against the death penalty prior to deciding.

We also wonder how Scott Peterson is going to afford a death penalty defense. Will he end up with appointed counsel? Whoever represents him must assemble a team of experts....from DNA to death penalty mitigation specialists, to jury consultants and lots more.

The taxpayers of California and Stanislaus County, as well as whatever county the trial is moved to, should a change of venue be granted, will pay dearly-- according to one California sherriff, it takes $500,000 just for law enforcement expenses. By the time appeals are over, it's more likely to approach $2 million.

A 1993 study from California found that each death penalty case cost at least $1.25 million more than a regular murder case and a sentence of life without. (South Bend Tribune, June 2, 2002)

We think it would be far preferable for the money to be used for schools, hospitals, public safety and jobs--or to help the families of murder victims, through counseling or financial help. We urge California residents to contact the District Attorney's office and ask them to seek life without as the maximum penalty for Scott Peterson.

Stanislaus County District Attorney 800 11th Street, Room 200
Modesto, California 95354
Telephone: (209) 525-5550
Fax: (209)525-5545
email: adultcrimes@stanislaus-da.org