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#1
11-24-2002, 10:21 AM
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Mickey Thompson Murder Trial Halted
Goodwin should get the death penalty
 ---------------------------------------------- NOVEMBER 24, 05:02 ET Mickey Thompson Murder Trial Halted SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) — The trial of a man accused of ordering the 1988 execution-style killings of auto-racing legend Mickey Thompson and his wife has been put on hold after an appeals court agreed to review whether the case should be tried in Los Angeles County. The 4th District Court of Appeal scheduled a Feb. 21 hearing after reviewing a motion by lawyers representing Michael Goodwin, Thompson's former business partner, who has been charged with the killings. Goodwin, 57, has pleaded innocent to two counts of murder and special circumstance allegations of lying in wait, murder for financial gain and multiple murders. If convicted, he could face life in prison without parole. Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty. Though the slayings occurred in Los Angeles County, prosecutors in Orange County say they have jurisdiction because Goodwin, who allegedly hatched the murder plot, lives in the Orange County city of Dana Point. Goodwin's attorney, Jeffrey Benice, said Friday's ruling casts doubts on the prosecution's case. He said he planned to ask for a dismissal. District Attorney Tony Rackauckas said there is enough evidence to try the case in either county. Thompson, 59, and his wife Trudy, 41, were shot to death outside their home in the gated community of Bradbury, east of Los Angeles, by a pair of gunmen who fled on bicycles. Goodwin and Thompson were once partners in promoting off-road racing. Prosecutors allege Goodwin arranged the murders after a falling-out over business matters. Goodwin said that he and Thompson had settled their business dispute. Thompson was the first person to travel more than 400 mph on land. He has set nearly 500 auto speed and endurance records.
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#3
11-24-2002, 10:58 PM
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I dont believe in the death penalty but I do hope the suspect gets a fair trial and if found guilty is given an appropriate sentence.
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