Drew Peterson trial delayed

July 14, 2009

Drew Peterson posts/interviews/videos

The Peterson defense needs more time. Joel Brodsky was worried that if he couldn’t get Drew bail the trial would be expedited. And then there’s the massive amount of discovery he has to wade through: 9,470 investigative reports totaling more that 30K pages, as well as a computer, 127 pieces of physical evidence and hundreds of hours of audiotapes. Last time in court Brodsky asked the judge to make the prosecution give him some hints about when the murder took place and how it was committed.

In court today, Peterson waved his right to a speedy trial, meaning Brodsky could get his extension. The trial was to have started on August 24th – Judge Stephen White has not yet set a new one.

Will County Prosecutor John Connor didn’t object to the delay.

Prosecutors will give Peterson back the titles of his motorcyle and a lightweight aircraft so he can fund his defense.

Next court date: August 14th.

Peterson defense plans to ask for change of venue and plans to challenge the constitutionality of the so-called Drew Peterson Law that would allow Kathleen Savio’s own words to be used as evidence in the case.

No word in this report what Peterson looked like or who was in attendance as far as the Savio family.

Source: Chicago’s Breaking News‘ KIM JANSSEN

Circuit Court Judge Stephen White assigned to Peterson case

Updated Drew Peterson posts/videos

June 1, 2009

Well won’t be anymore judges unless it comes from the Court. Both the prosecution and defense have used their substitution motions. The original judge was to be presiding felony Judge Richard Schoenstedt. But on 5-18, Peterson’s arraignment the prosecution surprised the defense by requesting Judge Richard Schoenstedt be replaced on “the grounds of prejudice against the state”. No real reason needed to be disclosed. The defense attempted to fight it but Will County Chief Judge Gerald McKinney assigned Judge Carla Alessio Policandriotes .

Initially, the defense had no idea who she was and said they objected. After the break they said she was fine. As a fleeting counterpoint the defense thought about requesting a new prosecutor but never went through with it. She refused to lower Peterson’s bond and at that hearing defense attorney Joel Brodsky brought up the issue as to whether she should recuse herself because she had signed then Kathleen Peterson’s order of protection from Drew – [I see I never posted this]. She said she did not remember the case (2002) and again they said they were fine with her — that she had a “very sharp legal mind” and is “not afraid to make unpopular rulings” and “that’s exactly the type of judge we want”. But the judge gave them 9 days to file a motion, which they did, citing “prejudice against the defendant’. They also requested that Judge Daniel Rozak – who agreed with the $20M bond – not be assigned.

Yesterday, Chief Judge Kinney assigned Circuit Court Judge Stephen White.

I wonder if it will prompt another Peterson call to The Today Show or Mancow. I realize I never posted that phone call either. Absolutely disgusting. Will find it.

Next hearing set for Wednesday, June 3rd, 1:30.

Glenn Selig, Peterson/Brodsky publicist:

A new judge was assigned today in the Drew Peterson case. Circuit Judge Stephen White will now oversee proceedings. Will County Chief Judge Gerald Kinney made the decision this morning. The defense team representing Peterson wanted Judge Carla Alessio Policandriotes replaced.

“We’re pleased that we can finally get moving on the merits of the case,” says lead defense attorney Joel A. Brodsky.

The next hearing in the case is set for Wednesday at 1:30pm CST where attorneys will discuss the merits of sealing discovery and limiting Peterson’s face-to-face contact with his legal team.

Peterson lost his appeal re: Savio estate

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-28)

May 28, 2009

Illinois Supreme Court denied Peterson’s appeal of the lower court’s ruling that Kathleen Savio’s estate should be reopened. Not as if anyone would give a man arrested for murder control of his murdered wife’s estate.

Feb 4th ruling to Peterson’s appeal. He lost – the Savio family remained in control of the estate.

March 11th: Peterson filed an appeal with the Illinois Supreme Court challenging this lower court ruling.

April 21: Savio’s father and sister file a wrongful death lawsuit against Peterson.

May 7: Peterson arrested.

May 22: Judge holds firm on $2M bond

May 28: Supreme Court upholds lower court ruling – estate stays in the Savio family’s hands.

Peterson defense re: hearing (5-22)

Here it is TmP488zz:

May 22, 2009

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-26)

Peterson defense team comments after the hearing in which Judge refused to lower the bail. So it stays at $30M and Drew stays in jail. And his lawyers actually walked in there thinking they could get the bail reduced to somewhere between $100-500K. Out of touch with reality. What Peterson did to his children is evil. Especially making his sons go on TV to say what a great dad he is.

JOEL BRODSKY:

• So much of these “new facts” supposedly come to light in the last 6 months people seem to have an amazing memory that things they haven’t thought about for the last five years have all of a sudden come back, Amazing how people are suddenly starting to remember these things in the last six weeks.

• Obviously, someone came forward and we’re going to find out who it is–but in these high-profile cases, they often bring people out of the woodwork making allegations.

• With each one of these statements — what were gonna do today is gonna get a transcript of what the States Attorney laid out today and he set himself a bar. He laid out facts that he says he is going to be able to prove. And each time he fails to prove it, we’re going to be right there with another motion to reduce bond.

• [Glasgow] said a lot of new things, which he can’t substantiate, and every time he fails to do it – when put to the test – we’re gonna be right back.

Was the judge fair?

[Notice how neither one of them are respectful enough to call Judge Carla Alessio-Policandriotes anything other than "she". or "this judge". It matters - especially to professional woman who hyphenates.]

ANDREW ABOOD:

• She’s fine. She’s gonna be fine. This is gonna be a long process. This is a big case. It’s difficult to be thrown into this case given everything that’s transpired over that last 18 months. Everything that we’ve heard about her is that she is an excellent judge, that she’s got a great intellect that in the moment she”l be able to rise to the occasion and make sound decisions.

Will you consider changing judges?

ANDREW ABOOD:

• We’ve got the whole weekend. We’re going to look at all of our options.

JOEL BRODSKY:

• We’ve got 9 more days to file a motion for substitutions. I won’t totally foreclose it – but as I said we’ve looked at this judge and talked to people about her and investigated her . She is someone with a very sharp legal mind – very bright – and is not afraid to make unpopular rulings. So that’s exactly the type of judge we want for this case.

Looking at her and appearing before her are two different things.

JOEL BRODSKY:

• As Mr Abood said, this is her first time in the courtroom, and it ’s gonna be a big and probably highly contentious case…and perhaps what she wanted to do is put in a firm hand at the get go. That she kinda make a statement that this is going to be – that there is going to be no nonsense.

What does Drew think of the decision?

• I think he was [he looks like he was going to cry], I think, a little bit taken aback. He felt like a lot of people did – he’s not alone in this – that $20M is exceptionally high.

• Drew’s main concern is always his children. As long as his children are taken care of he’s ready for what life throws at him.

• Unfortunately case is going to proceed faster since he’s incarcerated.

• Additional burden on us the State and the courts.

• Very little they laid out that was a surprise – most of it was based on hearsay.

• That the new hearsay law would be applied to say that it’s both Constitutional and applied retroactively is impossible to believe.

• Without the hearsay they don’t have much of a case.

Are you saying the hitman was not a surprise?

JOEL BRODSKY:

• We’ve heard something about that in the past but nothing substantive. Obviously they’ve had someone come forward and we;ll do an investigation.

• There always folks who interject themselves. Could very well be that case.

ANTHONY ABOOD:

• Glasgow’s statement focused on motive, which is not an element in an indictment.

• You can prove motive but it doesn’t establish a prima facie case.

• What he didn’t say — because he doesn’t know or doesn’t want to say — is HOW DID STACY DIE.

[Mixed up or the truth?]

BRODSKY whispers “Kathy” and ABOOD corrects himself.

• That is a problem of reasonable doubt

• Prosecutor has to explain how the defendant took a life

• If the jury is going to find him guilty he has to prove it and explain how it was done

JOEL BRODSKY:

• No sign of forced entry

• No sign of struggle

• He’s arguing for the defense

• These are major major holes in his theory and a major problem with his case.

• Jury has to find that somebody got into that house, committed homicide without leaving one forensic trace and then exited the house without being seen. And was able to…

[Then he falters - mentioning the fact that "the murderer" aka Drew got away by fooling the prosecutors. Should never have said that because it presumes guilt and cover up after the fact. He caught himself but went on anyway. Keep this guy talking - he's just as bad as Drew. An innocent man's lawyer would never have taken the argument that far.]

• And was able to convince investigators from the State’s attorney’s office and from the police that he was somewhere [almost says else and catches himself] that he had nothing to do with it and nowhere near the scene during the time periodof the death

• Major problem in his thumbnail

Prosecutor said he should be treated differently with bail because he’s a police officer.

• Should be treated the same

• But sentencing for policemen is sometimes worse because they breached a public trust

• But the guilt or innocence phase of the trial should be treated the same

• If he testified he should not be held to a higher standard

Savio family re: Drew Peterson arrest (WBBM 780)

May 23, 2009 by mattie14

This is a first. Found something that wasn’t posted instead of looking for something that was but disappeared. Savio family after Peterson was arrested.

Drew Peterson posts updated (5-22)

May 8, 2009

Peterson exiting his arraignment. (AP Photo/M. SPENCER GREEN)

Savio family interview with WBBM 780.

Brother HENRY SAVIO:

As far as I’m concerned, I feel he did kill my sister. That’s the way I feel. I know his attorneys might say different, but I believe he did.

My sister was a good-hearted person. She gave him a divorce early because he wanted to get married to Stacy, and Stacy was going to have a baby. And they didn’t settle the property. And right after he gets married, she’s dead.

And we believed this five years ago when she passed away. Nobody would listen to us then…

I feel that they’re going to find out what happened to Stacy. I also feel that Drew Peterson killed Stacy too because she knew too much

Sister SUE DOMAN:

We always believed in God. And now we believe in the justice system. [Kathleen's birthday is June 13th] It’s going to be a celebration that we finally got justice for her.

Sister ANNA MARIE DOMAN:

I screamed. My brother just called me and said the state police called him so I know it’s for real. When Henry called, I’m like, say it again. Say it again. I wish I could call Kitty up. Anytime something big happened, that’s who I’d be calling.

We have been waiting, how many years? After all that time of people not believing us, not responding to us. Nothing being told to us. There’s nothing else you can do. Then all of a sudden, I’m like, thank you. I hope they’ve got all their ducks in a row.

[Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow] is my idol, I gotta tell you.

Nephew CHARLIE DOMAN:

We knew it was coming, it was just a matter of time.

Stacy Peterson spokeswoman PAM BOSCO:

We anticipated the day, we had been patient waiting for it for what seemed like forever. We’re in full support of the Savio family.

We’ll patiently wait again as this unfolds.

We always said the one thing that they had in common was Drew Peterson.

“This is Kathleen Savio day!”

Drew Peterson posts updated 5-23

New judge appointed in Peterson case
Peterson: Judge Policandriotes denies request to lower bond
Peterson defense filing immediate appeal

MAY 22, 2009

A jubilant Savio family comments on Judge Carla Alessio Policandriotes’ decision to leave Drew Peterson’s bond at $20M. The decision essentially ensures he will remain in jail through to the end of the trial and perhaps never see the light of day again. And he is in isolation/seclusion/protective custody whatever you want to call it in the medical wing of the Will County Adult Detention Center.

There were mostly smiles and a few choked up moments when they talked about Drew trying to ask someone to murder Kathleen (they had never heard it before), about their nephews and Stacy’s two young children, and when asked what Kathleen would think.

They siblings spoke together as a group taking turns at the mic – I didn’t see Kathleen’s father speak. They reiterated that it was Kathleen’s day, that they couldn’t believe the day had come, that there is a long way to go, but they’re a close family and will stick together — noting that Kathleen would have done the same for any of them.

They would like to have a relationship with their teenage nephews, who Drew has kept from seeing them. The Anna Marie spoke about how long it had taken because no one would listen but that once they did, they have been relentless. Echoed by the brother. She knew it would happen – she had the same evidence of Kathleen’s fears they want to admit though the “Drew Peterson” hearsay law as she did when she first went to them.

They are very pleased with Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow and have faith in him. They’re angry that Bolingbrook PD looked the other way and feel that the powers that be assisted Drew in making sure the case went away. “Drew knows a lot of people”. They believe Peterson would have fled and think the bond is appropriate. They also believe Judge is fair and will make sure the case is conducted to the letter of the law.

Kathleen Savio (AP Photo/ Courtesy of Anna Marie Doman)

[Birthday June 13th. Would have been 46]

Best line: SUSAN DOMAN:

So to all you Drew Peterson fans [smile]- sorry to disappoint you – but this is Kathleen Savio’s day!

It’s about time.

SUSAN started out:

I am happy. The streets are safer

HENRY (big grin):

We’re ready for a bottle of champagne right now!

SUSAN:

It’s a small start. We have a long way to go, but this is a victory for my sister Kathleen.

We’re just so happy. We haven’t smiled for a very long time, and this is our day.

Thank you everyone for your support.

How did the judge handle the courtroom?

SUSAN:

She seems very fair. She listens to both sides fairly. She seemed tough, but fair. And that’s all we expect.

Case seem stronger after what you heard today?

ANNA MARIE DOMAN:

The case does seem stronger. There are some things I didn’t know about. Like Drew trying to solicit to murder my sister. I had no idea about that, so I’m not sure what else they have. But, obviously, they did their homework, and they did a good job. And we’ve waited a long, long time.

SUSAN:

There’s a long more that is going to be coming out.

ANNA MARIE:

Actually, I wasn’t sure we would get to this day. After she first died, we were all convinced that she was murdered. And after getting all the rejection from everybody — I had a briefcase of all the documents everyone’s seen – I had all that stuff, and nobody would even look at it. They’re practically telling you you’re neurotic and you’re crazy. And when they finally came and said they would look at it, I knew this would come once they started looking.

I still can’t believe we’re here on this day and he’s actually been charged and he’s actully gonna be there. I mean it’s a very bittersweet victory.

Did you know he had a $1M life insurance policy?

ANNA MARIE:

Yes. I knew about that. Actually, I believe Drew didn’t know he wasn’t the beneficiary, because at one time he was. I don’t know if he knew she changed it. I knew she changed it to the kids. I don’t know if he was aware of the fact or not.

Something about how is she going to prepare for the trial.

If you tell the truth – you don’t need to prepare. So, whatever they ask me, I’m just going to answer the truth.

HENRY:

I think Drew thought he was going to get off. States Attorney Glasgow is an excellent, excellent [INAUDUBLE]

Do you think Drew had enough friends in Will County to delay this day?

FAMILY- no hesitation: Most definitely. He knows alot of people.

SUSAN:

But we’re right on top of it. Mr Glasgow is right on top of it. I’d like to say this is a happy day for Kathleen, but our thoughts are with Stacy’s family with what they’re going through, and also to [Kathleen's teenage sons] Kris and Tom and [Stacy's two young] children.

This has to be a very hard day. They’re expecting their father to be home. But they have to know the truth, and the truth will come out, and we hope to reunite with them. We miss them and love them very much.

Have you had contact?

SUSAN:

No, we have not. Drew Peterson kept the boys away from us.

ANNA MARIE:

And it’s a shame that the children are the one who are suffering. They are also victims of the crime – Kris and Tom and Stacy’s little kids. I think it’s awful. No matter what happens with this trial – good, bad or otherwise – these poor kids are going to be scarred for life and it’s awful. People aren’t looking at that fact. Normal life is going to be tough for them.

What do you want to say to Kathleen?

SUSAN:

I love you Kathy. It’s been 5 years. I put a note in your coffin and you finally answered my prayers. I love you and miss you – and we’re gonna get him!

FAMILY: We all miss her.

HENRY:

My sister also said she would haunt him. That if anything ever happened to her – she would haunt him.

ANNA MARIE:

But this is an example of very good, close family ties. We all love each other, and no matter what – good bad or others – whatever happens – we are always there for each other, and that’s something I tried to instill in my kids. And that’s something the four of us have. No matter if we don’t talk for months – we’re there.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. She’s not with us anymore – but she’s here in out hearts. We’re still here seeking justice – just like I know she would be right here if it was me.

FAMILY: She’s in our hearts and we have a long way to go.

Stacy Peterson family re: Drew not getting out

Drew Peterson posts updated (5-22)

May 22, 2009

Stacy Peterson family spokeswoman PAM BOSCO’s reaction to the news Drew Peterson will not get out on bond.

She is angry today. I’ve never seen her this angry before and I don’t know the origin. Maybe hearing how no one listened to Kathleen Savio. Had they, Stacy might still be here and Bosco wouldn’t have to be there. Maybe now that he is locked up she can vent.

This is photo from NBC 5’s website. The middle pix has to be from today because the caption was he appeared “glum” in court. He looks completely vacant. Before he looked evil crazy now he looks demented crazy and well on his way to psychosis. Look a this left eye.

Drew Peterson posts: update 5-22
New judge appointed in Peterson case
Peterson: Judge Policandriotes denies request to lower bond
Peterson defense filing immediate appeal

PAM BOSCO:

For so many years nobody heard the cries and the pleas from Kathleen. We were too slow to react to Stacy. But I think today the Courts listened to them.

Tone of the Judge?

The judge’s tone was strict with what she expected from both sides. Because of tha,t I think it was very fair. She wasn’t going to have too much room except for expected rules of a courtroom. So I was happy with how she set the tone.

Relationship with Savio family?

We fully support of each other. We both look to each other as family and I think because of that – the Savio family it helps us get through these says. I’m sure with what we’ll be hearing in the days ahead – weeks ahead – with this trial, we’ll be relying on each other even more. It’s a very sad situation for both families and I just hope we get through this with some sanity.

What about the change in Peterson’s demeanor?

I think as Jim Glasgow said in the beginning, [Peterson] thought all this was a joke, and he probably thought he would never come to see this day, and now that he sees the seriousness of it he’s no longer laughing.

What did you think about the new judge?

Again, I thought she was very serious – strict, and in the end, I think that was fair for both sides.

Suggestion that he confided in another Bolingbrook police officer about this murder beforehand and nothing ever came of it?

Everyone always said in the beginning what does the state really have against Drew Peterson. I think that as this trial proceeds we’re going to see there’s a lot more that we haven’t heard that will support what will support what we’ve always thought about him regarding Kathy and Stacy.

Motive money?

To Drew, everything is about money. We felt that from the very beginning – that he valued material things over relationships. And for Mr Brodsky’s remark that if anything Drew is a unique but honest man – that is a fallacy. I don’t know a single married man who cheats on women to be considered an honest man. So Drew is not an honest man, as far as we’re concerned.

CASSANDRA CALES:

I’m going to sleep good tonite knowing that he’s paying for what he’s done.

Just shows the corruption and the way not to be a basic police officer to serve and protect.

Reduced his bond to $25K, think he would have “flown”?

Yes, because he now sees the seriousness of it.

PAM BOSCO:

And that $25K is the magic number for Drew. When Stacy Peterson disappeared, he said she took her bikini and $25k. So that number seems to be a recurrence.

Peterson defense filing immediate appeal

May 22, 2009

Drew Peterson posts updated (5-22)

Judge Policandriotes denies Peterson’s request to lower bond

Brodsky et al filing an appeal based on the relevance of the statements made in regards to Stacy Peterson.

At trial he is counting that evidence under the “Drew Peterson” hearsay law will not be permitted as far as Constitutionality and that it can’t be applied retrospectively. Problem being some of the documents are circulating the blogosphere and the Chicago newspapers.

Official statement:

We’re disappointed that the motion to reduce bond was denied. We feel the state’s attorney made references during the hearing that were irrelevant to the case, such as statements made in regard to Stacy Peterson. These statements had nothing to do with the case involving the death of Kathleen Savio.

We will immediately appeal this decision to the Illinois Appellate Court. Appeals of motions to deny bond are heard in an expedited fashion. We are confident the appellate court will reduce the $20-million bond to a reasonable level. We expect to have the appeal on file by the end of next week.

Brodsky pre-hearing: bond should be $100-500K

May 22, 2009

Drew Peterson posts; UPDATE (5-22)

Video of JOEL BRODSKY discussing with NBC 5 his plans to get bail reduced. Thinks it should be $100-500K. Also discusses the possibiity of change of prosecutors. Lame attempt to pull the same thing Glasgow did with change of judge.

Needless to say Brodsky got a rude awakening when the newly appointed Judge Policondriotes denied his motion to reduce bail, keeping it at $20M.

Drew has the very real possibility of never seeing daylight again and his trial will be expedited because he is locked up.

Seems Brodsky needs a reality check like Peterson. He should hire somebody who knows what they’re doing.

On April 29th – 9 days before Peterson was indicted, Brodsky said on Mancow to Stacy’s half-sister, Cassandra Cales that there would never be an indictment. End of story. Period.

Brodsky also said when asked that he is “not worried whatsoever” about the blue barrel found floating downstream from unidentified skeletal remains that were discovered on the bank of the Des Plaines River in, of all places, Will County.

Lisa Stebic of Will County “went for a run” 2 years ago never to be seen again. Her disappearance happened to the same day she threw her husband out of the house. The only mystery is her whereabouts. Stebic’s cousin said it would be a relief if it were her cousin so they would have some closure – her word.

Drew Peterson: Judge Policandriotes denies request to lower bond

May 22, 2009

Drew Peterson posts: update 5-22
New judge appointed in Peterson case
Peterson defense filing immediate appeal

Updated 4pm, 7pm

Source: CLTV

Drew Peterson hearing today.

Judge Carla Alessio Policandriotes denied Peterson’s request to lower bond. It remains at $20 million and he in jail.

Judge Policandriotes was described as firm, strict, fair and possessive of a brilliant legal mind.

JOEL BRODSKY said it will be the Judge’s first case. He raised the issue of whether she should recuse herself [different post] and has 9 days in which to decide whether to bring a motion.

Will County State’s Attorney JAMES GLASGOW alleged:

• DREW PETERSON tried to pay somebody $25K to kill Kathleen Savio in 2003.

• No details about the solicitation.

• PETERSON told a fellow police officer that he would be better off if Savio was dead because he would be financially ruined with the pending divorce.

• Three weeks later KATHLEEN SAVIO was dead – murdered March 1, 2004.

• PETERSON told a different officer in 2003 that: “My life would be easier if she were just dead.”

First I’ve heard of the murder for hire.

Brodsky said he had heard something about it early on.

First time the Savio family had heard of it.

KATHLEEN SAVIO’S sister:

It was the first time we ever heard anything like that. It was a shock to us, and brought tears to our eyes, but we had to control ourselves and hope that it would turn out ok, and it did.

JAMES GLASGOW argued that Drew Peterson, in his former life as a Bolingbrook police officer, was highly-trained in weapons and undercover disguises and could easily disappear and be a threat to the community. He said if Peterson posted bail, it “would come from blood money from Kathleen Savio.”

GLASGOW: We followed the statute and presented what was required in order to make a proper argument on behalf of the people and the judge was satisfied with what we presented. I believe that’s why she kept the bond at $20 million.

We’re obviously, we’re pleased with Judge Policandriotes’ ruling today to keep the bond at $20M. I believe it’s appropriate in keeping with other bonds that have been set in this county and the facts and circumstances of this case and we’re looking forward to proceeding to trial in this matter. Thank you.

Wouldn’t answer question whether solicitation was going to be added to the charges.

Stacy Peterson family and Savio families are giving statements.[separate posts] Needless to say both are more than pleased Peterson will remain in jail. He quite possibly could never again be a free man.

Peterson’s appearance and demeanor were said to have noticeably changed and that he appeared “somber” in his blue jail scrubs during the proceedings – although he was spotted “laughing with his attorneys” before they began.

Savio family doesn’t think he has changed.

Next court date: June 17th.

Savio family’s post-arraignment comments (5-18)

The whole day’s posts seem to have disappeared.

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-22)

May 18, 2009

The Savio family comments on the arraignment. They, unlike his attorneys and the media, did not think he “behaved”. They think he was the same old Drew and do not want him let out of jail and think he murdered because of the money, custody and Stacy.

Kathleen Savio nephew, MICHAEL LISAK:

He was waiving to my mom. He was continuously looking at my mother and my family, the Savio family, almost in a mocking way. He was rocking back and forth in his chair t he whole time like he was waiting to go see a movie or something. It wasn’t like he was in court.

Do you feel he was taunting you?

I feel he was in a sense – peering around his lawyers….I guess he was kind of curious who showed up for Kathleen.

He goes on to say that Drew murdered his aunt because of money issues and because of his new girlfriend (17 y/o Stacy Peterson). And that he doesn’t doubt that Peterson loves his kids (said sincerely).

Having my aunt out of the way would make things a lot easier for what he wanted to happen….And what better way than taking the one who’s bothering you out of the picture?

Should the bond be reduced?

Kathleen Savio’s younger brother, NICHOLAS SAVIO:

No. Not at all. We’ve been suffering for four years. We don’t want anymore suffering. He should just sit in jail, as far as I’m concerned.

Kathleen Savio’s father, HENRY SAVIO:

I didn’t like him in the beginning to start with. But then I figured, well we’d get over it. I don’t know. He had some resemblance about him that I didn’t like.

HENRY SAVIO:

My wish is to have this done. My daughter was very determined. I always knew what happened to her couldn’t just be an accident.

Kathleen Savio niece, MELISSA DOMAN:

My aunt deserves justice. She deserved justice 5 years ago. And she deserved to be listened to before she was murdered.

MELISSA DOMAN:

I’ve seen [Peterson] walking around for over a year with that smug smirk. Now, the smug smirk is gone.

Daily Herald

Peterson defense comments post-arraignment (5-18)

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-22)

Hyeridad:

Here are post-arraignment remarks by Peterson Defense team. I couldn’t find a copy of this original post. Here’s just the raw shorthand. Not worth going back over. I’m pretty sure there was a more complete video than this but this was easy to find.

• Change of judge is gamesmanship
• They don’t want to approach on the merits
• Weakness of the state’s actual case
• Motion the judge is prejudiced toward the state
• Want the ruling to make the prosecution to spell out why

About Drew:

He’s certainly upbeat. He’s confident. He knows he hasn’t done anything as he said. The advantage of Drew as client is that he knows procedure. He’s not wondering why, why did they continue it. He knows the wheels of justice turn slow and it sometimes inconvenient.

• Drew’s rolling with the punches
• As long as Drew’s kids are ok he’s ok
• Understands that the motion will be heard
• Want to base the bond on issues of merit
• Can him face to face.
• Granted daily visits
• Bench vs jury trial
• Complex decision
• Haven’t made decision if he’ll testify
• Change of venue
• It wouldn’t change the judge

• Will Drew be indicted concerning Stacy?
• Have they said he is be indicted?
• Anybody’s guess
• Laughs. Believe he’ll ever be indicted in regards to anything with Stacy
• Laughs. We’re getting paid.

What’s missing?

The righteous indignation of the defense team of a client falsely accused and they’ve had way too many press conferences to change their tune now. Brodsky always says “Drew knows he did nothing wrong.”

He doesn’t say: I know my client. He didn’t do it. He is innocent. I know he’s innocent. I believe my client is innocent.

Why?

Because it would be a lie?

Drew Peterson arraignment (5-18)

May 22, 2009 by mattie14

This is another post that disappeared that is being reposted. Not as complete as the original. Not worth redoing. Defense team’s remarks post-arraignment are in the next post.

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-22)

May 18, 2009

Drew Peterson pled not guilty at his arraignment as expected. His defense team was then hoping to get him a reasonable bail and maybe even get him sprung. The prosecutors however had something else in mind. They entered a substitution-of-judge request. Something not unusual for the defense but not for the prosecution, especially when it’s the presiding felony judge. They requested Judge Richard Schoenstedt be replaced on “the grounds of prejudice against the state”. They didn’t have to state why. Conjecture revolves around the gun charges dismissed by Schoenstedt in November when the prosecution refused to turn over internal memos regarding the Peterson investigation to his attorney.

Peterson was reportedly on his “best behavior”. What does that cover in a sociopath? He arrived in navy blue jailhouse scrubs and ignored the media on his way in and out.

His lawyer, JOEL BROSDKY:

In court, he was appropriate. He was respectful in front of the judge. He wasn’t making any wisecracks….wasn’t making any jokes in court. In back he was a lot little lighter, a little bit of levity.

As for the prosecution’s move?

It was nothing but gamesmanship. It shows the state doesn’t want to try this case on the merits. They want to try it on technicalities. It indicates to us the weakness of [the prosecution's case].

Sources: FOX

New judge appointed in Drew Peterson case

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-21)

May 21, 2009

Will County States Attorney James Glasgow won round one – he got his new judge.

Chief Judge Gerald Kinney appointed Judge Carla Alessio Policandriotes to replace Judge Richard Schoenstedt, who Glasgow ask be replaced on “grounds of prejudice.” No detail given. Thoughts were personal bias/relationship and the gun charges that were dropped when Glasgow wouldn’t hand over info to the defense. I wonder how many judges Kinney had to choose from and whether any of them asked for the case (or asked not to be appointed). Also whether the choice of a woman was intentional.

Info about Judge Policandriotes from STEVE SCHMADEKE:

Policandriotes was selected to serve as an associate judge in the 12th Circuit in 2001, then won a 6-year term on the circuit court bench in 2002. She was retained in last year’s election, and runs the drug court.

She also handled a small part of the 2002 divorce case between Peterson and Kathleen Savio, signing an early order setting child support and awarding Savio temporary custody of their children.

I don’t know if this is the judge who set Peterson off, which Kathleen Savio detailed in one of her letters. Savio said he broke in and held a knife to her throat, angry that the judge had ordered he pay child support – even though he was having an open adulterous relations with 17 y/o Stacy Peterson, which Savio learned about through an anonymous letter. It would be a little cosmic justice if it was.

Next hearing tomorrow before Judge Policandriotes, 1:30.

Better copy of anonymous letter sent to Kathleen Savio

May 21, 2009 by mattie14

May 21, 2009

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-22)

Here’s a better copy of the anonymous letter sent to Kathleen Savio informing her about Peterson’s flagrant affair with 17 y/o Stacy Peterson.

Provided by Justice Cafe

Click top right for full page.

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View this document on Scribd

Peterson attorneys to challenge Glasgow request

May 21, 2009

Thanks Hyeridad.

I really don’t know where these posts end up. Almost two weeks went by without a disappearing posts…or so I thought. The posts about Monday’s arraignment are missing so I’ll have to see what happened. Found this. Clearly their attempts didn’t work. If you’re looking for something in particular let me know. I’ve bsteen a little busy on other matters as well.

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Updated: Drew Peterson posts

May 20, 2009

Prosecutors in the Drew Peterson case asked for a change of judge during Monday’s arraignment. Evidently they don’t have to mention why. Peterson’s defense team is not pleased and referred to it as gamesmanship. The Judge is mum.

Here’s the press release on their strategy. Will be decided on tomorrow at 1:30 hearing. Emphasis added.

Drew Peterson’s defense team is challanging the Will County State’s Attorney who wants to remove Judge Richard Schoenstedt from presiding over Peterson’s murder case.

On Monday, following Peterson’s arraignment where he pleaded not guilty in the death of his third wife Kathleen Savio, Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow filed a motion, pursuant to 725 ILCS 5/114-5(c), to replace Judge Richard Schoenstedt.

Glasgow alleged that the trial judge was prejudiced against the State.

“Although the motion does not specifically state the basis for the prejudice, many in the press and public have speculated that the State believes that Judge Richard Schoenstedt’s previous rulings showed a favoritism of bias towards Drew,” says Andrew Abood, one of Peterson’s defense attorneys. “Some members of the press have even gone so far as to suggest that the reason for the motion was that Judge Schoenstedt had a prior relationship with Peterson himself.”

But Abood, and lead defense attorney Joel Brodsky, say that neither is true.

“Judge Schoenstedt has been very fair and even handed,” says Brodsky. “By all accounts, he has conducted himself according to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. On many occasions Judge Schoenstedt has made rulings which favored the State and were against Mr. Peterson’s interests.”

Judge Schoenstedt has not commented on the move by the State’s Attorney.

Abood says there are several criteria required in order to satisfy the substitution motion filed by the State’s Attorney. He says case law suggests that the mere assertion of prejudice against the State is all that is required and then the burden shifts to the Defendant opposing the Motion to establish that the Motion was made for some improper purpose.

“The State’s Attorney will not be able to show, or establish, actual prejudice on the part of Judge Schoenstedt, or that there was a previous relationship between Drew Peterson and the Judge. Both claims are wholly without merit,” says Abood.

The defense team continues to review case law regarding the motion, and will challenge it, Abood says.

Brodsky: lower bail, Peterson not flight risk

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-18)

May 18, 2009

Drew Peterson attorneys Joel Brodsky and Andrew Abood discuss Drew’s $20M bail.

Brodsky thinks it should be between $100-500K.

As far as Peterson being a flight risk?

Brodsky says he didn’t take off when he had the chance.

Problem being he wasn’t indicted before and getting out on bail would provide him the chance.

barry delegate, Reem Odeh, Drew Peterson lawyer

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-18)

May 18, 2009

Drew Peterson’s law team was unveiled yesterday: Joel Brodsky, Reem Odeh, Andrew Abood and John Paul Carroll.

Here’s info on Ms Odeh from Peterson’s publicist.

If Brodsky was smart he would allow her to speak only. His face/voice is synonymous to Drew’s and Abood’s voice is off-putting.

Reem Odeh, one of Drew Peterson’s Chicago attorneys and a partner in the law firm of Brodsky & Odeh, will be installed Monday evening as a member of the Board of Directors of the Arab American Bar Association at a dinner in Chicago.

Ms. Odeh, who was born in Virginia to a Palestinian-American family, has been an interagal part of Drew Peterson’s defense team.

Ms. Odeh, who has been sometimes publicly critical of her law firm’s most famous client’s outragous antics, is a leader in the Arab-American community.

In addition to being on the board of the Arab American Bar Assoc., Ms. Odeh is also involved in politics as a member of the Arab American Democratic Club and an Obama delegate to the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Before being sworn in, Ms. Odeh will spend the day meeting with her partner Joel Brodsky and attorney Andrew Abood planning strategy for Drew Peterson’s defense.

The AADC is basically the dot that connects Arab American money and the Daley Machine.

The Early Show: Peterson attorneys

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-18)

SOURCE: Early Show news anchor Russ Mitchell

• Peterson attorneys Joel Brodsky and Reem Odeh
• Not guilty
• Reduce bail
• Jury to focus on the facts and the lack of evidence in the case
• Peterson treated well
• Protective custody
• Image biggest problem

JOEL BRODSKY QUOTES:

It's a little bit boring, but it's much better than normal jail circumstances.

In a tight, uncomfortable situation, you're gonna get humor and wisecracks

What this trial is going to show -- if we even get to trial -- will be that there is absolutely no evidence that Drew did anything wrong, anything at all regarding Kathleen Savio's death.

Drew Peterson Defense Team

Updated: Drew Peterson posts (5-18)

May 18, 2009

Introducing Drew Peterson's defense team. [emphasis added]

Drew Peterson entered a plea of 'not guilty' at his arraignment hearing this morning at the Will County Courthouse. A hearing for a new judge and the amount of Drew's bond is scheduled for Thursday.

Lead defense counsel, Joel Brodsky of Brodsky & Odeh, says, "We are confident that when a jury examines the evidence, or should I say, lack of evidence, it will confirm what Drew Peterson has been saying all along - that he is not guilty."

Brodsky said that Drew, dressed in a blue jumpsuit this morning, was serious in his court appearance and that he understands the delays of the court process because of his own background as a law enforcement officer.
Peterson's defense team has more than 70 years of combined legal experience and his team says it will be employing top forensic experts and criminologists during the trial. One of the members of the team also has experience as a former Chicago police officer in the homicide unit and as a former prosecutor in Cook County.

The following is a list of Peterson's legal team members:

Joel Brodsky of Brodsky & Odeh – Lead Defense Counsel:
Joel A. Brodsky has more than 25 years of legal experience. He is admitted to practice in the State of Illinois, the Federal Courts for the Northern District of Illinois, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Brodsky is also a member of the Federal Trial Bar. He has been given a 'Very High' rating in the areas of reliability, diligence, ethics, conduct, and other areas relating to professional responsibility by the nationally recognized Martindale-Hubble lawyers rating service.

Reem Odeh of Brodsky & Odeh:
Reem Odeh is a graduate of Chicago's John Marshall Law School, where she was awarded a Juris Doctor degree in 2003. She also holds a B.A. in psychology and mass communications from St. Xavier University. She served as an intern on the murder task force of the Cook County Public Defender's Office in 2002. Odeh is fluent in spoken and written Arabic and is a member of the Arab-American Bar Association, American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association. Odeh's family has roots in Elbireh, Palestine.

Andrew Abood of the Abood Law Firm:
Andrew Abood is a graduate of Michigan State University and the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He has been a law clerk to the Honorable Michael F. Cavanaugh of the Michigan Supreme Court

Also part of the legal team but not present in Joliet today is John Paul Carroll of the John Paul Carroll Law Firm:

John Paul Carroll received his Juris Doctor degree from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago while working as a detective in the Chicago Police Department in the elite homicide/sex crimes unit. He has also worked in the Cook County Assistant State's Attorney's Office. Carroll holds a private detective license in Illinois (#115-000883) and is a member of the Bar in Illinois and Connecticut. He has both U.S. and Irish citizenship, and is conversant in Spanish.