Sentencing is set for March 9. As you probably remember, prosecutors took capital punishment off the table a while ago. Ron Sylvester says the prosecutors want to give him the Hard 50, meaning he wouldn't be eligible for parole until he's served 50 years. So, if Roeder lives to be 101, he could theoretically see the light of day again.
I'm curious to see if or when Roeder appeals. I was chatting with one of my editors, and he doesn't think Roeder will. He's essentially gotten what he wanted. Here's the official statement from Tiller's family:
Lee Thompson and Dan Monnat, Dr. George Tiller's attorneys, issued the following statement today at the request of Mrs. Jeanne Tiller and the Tiller family.
"The family of Dr. George Tiller would like to thank the jury, District Attorney Nola Foulston and her office and law enforcement for their service in this difficult matter. Once again, a Sedgwick County jury has reached a just verdict. We also want to thank George's countless friends and supporters in Wichita and around the country who have offered their comfort.
At this time we hope that George can be remembered for his legacy of service to women, the help he provided for those who needed it and the love and happiness he provided us as a husband, father and grandfather."
Defendant Scott Roeder leaves the courtroom after the jury heard the closing arguments in his case on Friday Jan. 29, 2010 in Wichita, Kan. Roeder was convicted of murdering Kansas abortion provider Dr. George Tiller. (AP Photo/Jeff Tuttle, Pool)
