BOLINGBROOK, Illinois – Drew Peterson, the man currently serving a 38-year prison sentence for the murder of his third wife, Kathleen Savio, has encountered another setback in his efforts to secure a new trial. Peterson’s defense team had requested a mental fitness evaluation after expressing concerns about their client’s mental state. However, the prosecution argued that Peterson appeared coherent and capable of communication during a recent hearing.
During the hearing, Judge Carlson reviewed the initial evaluation and ultimately denied the defense’s request. The judge cited Peterson’s participation in a national news interview back in February as evidence of his understanding and cognitive abilities. Peterson’s team, although claiming that their client was unaware he was entering the interview, conceded that he had indeed participated.
Following the denial of their request, Peterson attempted to approach the judge, only to be rebuffed. In response, Peterson made a seemingly sarcastic comment, implying that the judge appeared capable of handling himself. However, he later apologized after conferring with his attorneys.
It is worth noting that Peterson has never been charged in connection with the disappearance of his fourth wife, Stacey Peterson, who vanished 16 years ago. Nevertheless, he has remained the primary suspect in her case. Additionally, Peterson’s former attorney, Joel Brodsky, was present in the courtroom. Brodsky is currently facing a contempt charge for allegedly violating a gag order pertaining to Peterson’s case by speaking to the media in February and March.
Brodsky engaged in a heated exchange with Judge Carlson for over 20 minutes, attempting to get the contempt case dismissed. He argued that he was unaware of any wrongdoing on his part and contended that the gag order did not explicitly prohibit him from speaking to the media. However, Judge Carlson ultimately denied Brodsky’s motion to dismiss the case.
Despite Brodsky’s protests, the judge stated that the proceedings would continue as scheduled and set a pretrial status hearing for May 1. He also warned Brodsky against speaking to anyone outside the courtroom. Brodsky declined to speak to the media after the hearing.
Peterson’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 17, where a status hearing will take place. As he continues to fight for a new trial, the unresolved questions surrounding the disappearance of his fourth wife still loom over his already complicated legal situation.