Scott Peterson's pursuit of exoneration through the Los Angeles Innocence Project

The judge’s ruling is based on California Penal Code 1054.9, which provides discovery rights to defendants convicted of serious felonies and sentenced to significant prison time. Peterson, who is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole, has argued that new evidence, including DNA tests and police reports, could exonerate him. His defense team has pointed to a burglary that occurred near his home around the time of his wife’s disappearance as a potential alternative explanation for the crime. While the Los Angeles Innocence Project seeks to investigate these claims, experts remain skeptical about whether this new evidence will be sufficient to overturn Peterson’s conviction.

Background of the Case

Scott Peterson was convicted in 2004 for the murders of his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson, and their unborn son, Conner. Laci went missing on Christmas Eve 2002, and her body was discovered months later in the San Francisco Bay. Peterson’s actions following her disappearance, including his attempts to flee and his extramarital affair, contributed to the prosecution’s case against him.

The Role of the Los Angeles Innocence Project

The Los Angeles Innocence Project aims to assist individuals who may have been wrongfully convicted. Since taking up Peterson’s case, the organization has focused on obtaining previously withheld evidence that they believe could demonstrate his innocence. This includes seeking DNA testing and reviewing police and court documents that were not available during his original trial.

Current Developments

The recent court decision granting Peterson a discovery period marks a significant step in his long quest for freedom. However, legal experts express doubts about whether this process will ultimately lead to a retrial or his exoneration. Peterson continues to maintain his innocence, asserting that he did not kill his wife and suggesting that other circumstances may have led to her death.