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Scott Peterson maintains innocence in new documentary 20 years post-conviction

Scott Peterson claims innocence in Peacock's new documentary airing August 20

Nearly two decades after his conviction for the murders of his wife and unborn son, and following the involvement of the Los Angeles Innocence Project, Scott Peterson continues to assert his innocence in a new documentary.

In a preview from Peacock’s “Face to Face with Scott Peterson,” shown on NBC’s “Today” on Thursday, Peterson responds to why his story matters, stating, “’Cause I didn’t kill my family.”

Peterson was convicted in 2004 after a trial that lasted almost six months. He was found guilty of first-degree murder for his wife Laci’s death and second-degree murder for their unborn son, Conner. Initially sentenced to death, his sentence was later changed to life imprisonment without parole.

In December 2002, Peterson reported Laci missing from their Modesto, California, home. Four months later, the bodies of Laci and Conner were discovered in San Francisco Bay.

Prosecutors claimed Peterson’s motive was to escape his marriage and impending fatherhood.

The case has been extensively covered in various media, including films, TV shows, books, podcasts, and documentaries. Recently, Netflix released a three-part series titled “American Murder: Laci Peterson,” featuring an in-depth interview with Laci’s mother, Sharon Rocha. Peacock’s documentary will air on August 20.

In 2023, Peterson’s legal team filed for a writ of habeas corpus, citing violations of constitutional and statutory rights and presenting new evidence supporting his claim of innocence.

The Los Angeles Innocence Project, dedicated to overturning wrongful convictions, announced a year later that it was investigating Peterson’s innocence claim as he seeks a new trial.

In May, a California judge approved the retesting of DNA found on duct tape attached to Laci Peterson’s pants when her body was recovered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

Why is Scott Peterson in the news again?

Scott Peterson claims his innocence in a new documentary.

What did Scott Peterson say in the documentary?

He said, ‘Cause I didn’t kill my family.’

What was Scott Peterson convicted of?

He was convicted of murdering his wife, Laci, and their unborn son.

What recent action has been taken regarding Scott Peterson’s case?

DNA on duct tape found with Laci’s body will be retested.

What is the Los Angeles Innocence Project’s involvement?

They are investigating Peterson’s claim of actual innocence.

Jamie Cartwright

"Jamie is a keen traveler, writer, and (English) teacher. A few years after finishing school in the East Mids, UK, he went traveling around South America and Asia. Several teaching and writing jobs, he found himself at The Thaiger where he mostly covers international news and events. "

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