Second Degree Murder Conviction for Phil Spector
A guilty verdict for legendary rock music producer Phil Spector, who was convicted today with second - degree murder in the fatal shooting death of actress Lana Clarkson at his mansion six years ago.
After 30 hours of deliberation, the Superior Court jury concluded that Spector, 69, murdered 40 year-old Clarkson just hours after meeting her at a Sunset Strip nightclub where she was a hostess.
As the verdict was read, Spector who has worked with recording artists such as the Beatles and Tina Turner, remained stoic while his young wife Rachelle wept.
Spector’s criminal defense attorney requested that he remain free on bail until sentencing. Judge Larry Paul Fidler rejected the request and ordered him into custody immediately. “Public safety and public protection are paramount,” Fidler said.
According to prosecutors, Spector had a history of threatening women with guns when they tried to leave his presence, especially if he was drunk.
“Every single fact says this is a self-inflicted gunshot wound,” defense attorney Doron Weinberg argued. “How do you ignore it? How do you say this could have been a homicide?”
Prosecutor Alan Jackson said the one word that could sum up Spector’s motive for killing Clarkson is: “Rage”.
Spector could be facing 15 years to life for the murder of Clarkson.
Spector guilty of 2nd degree murder, Sign on San Diego,April 13, 2009
Phil Spector convicted of second-degree murder, Los Angeles Times, April 13, 2009
If you have been charged with a crime in San Diego County, San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney Victor A. Orsatti can explain all of your legal questions during a free consultation.
