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Scott Peterson Trial Moved to San Mateo

It's official. The trial of Scott Peterson, charged with killing his pregnant wife Laci and unborn child, will be held in Redwood City in San Mateo County.

Mark Geragos refused to waive speedy trial and said he's ready to proceed with pre-trial motions Monday, followed by jury selection. The prosecution is asking for a two week delay. Peterson will be moved to the county jail in San Mateo tomorrow.

Typical jurors in San Mateo County are college-educated or have graduate degrees, Boyarsky said. "There are a lot of people in the computer industry, like engineers and consultants. A lot of professional people, and teachers," he said. "It's a question of which side thinks that highly-educated jurors are going to favor their particular presentation."

"I love San Mateo!" Geragos said outside court. "If I had to be anywhere in Northern California, San Mateo County is a good place to be."

The prosecution also asked to keep the trial in Stanislaus County where Modesto is situated, arguing that the survey the defense relied on for a change of venue had been tainted. The Judge denied that request, saying he had placed little weight on the survey when making his decision.

The trial promises to be a huge media event.

Up to 400 witnesses and 250 journalists are expected to be on hand for the trial, which could last four to six months.

As reasons for the venue change, the judge said:

...his main concern was that there was too much local news coverage of the case in the county of fewer than 500,000 people. He also said area residents had become too attached to the case - turning out in the thousands to search for Laci Peterson, mourn at her memorial service and give blood in her name.

We'll say. Modesto is far too invested in Laci Peterson as a victim to be able to give Scott a fair shake. She's been too deified, he's been too demonized. A change of venue was a given.

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