Covington man on death row asks for new trial

On behalf of Dickman Law Offices, P.S.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Monday, June 4, 2012

A Covington man on death row is asking for a new trial. The 44-year-old man was convicted of murder 13 years ago. However, his lawyers say the attorneys who defended him in 1999 were inexperienced, unprepared and ineffective. In fact, they say it was as if he had no representation at all.

In July 1999, the 44-year-old man was found guilty of strangling a 66-year-old woman in her Kentucky home. Prosecutors also said he withdrew money from the woman’s bank accounts using a debit card he had stolen from her home.

In 2002, the 44-year-old also pleaded guilty to strangling a 70-year-old woman in her home in 1997.

A hearing will take place this week where his attorneys will argue for a new trial.

This case shows how important a strong criminal defense can be. It also shows the importance of a person’s right to a fair trial, guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment.

It is not clear how this specific case will turn out. However, it serves as a reminder that even people who are accused of committing serious crimes have rights as citizens of the United States. They are entitled to adequate representation as well as a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. They are presumed innocent unless the prosecution proves beyond a reasonable doubt that they are guilty.

People in Covington who are accused of serious crimes would be wise to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney will investigate every aspect of a case and work to ensure that the rights of the accused are upheld.

Source: KyPost.com, “Convicted killer Fred Furnish seeks new trial,” May 28, 2012

Posted in: Criminal Defense