Attorneys File Derrick Todd Lee's First Appeal

Attorneys for the south Louisiana serial killer, Derrick Todd Lee, say they have found 32 errors in Lee's conviction. They are asking the state Supreme Court to throw out his death sentence.

The Supreme Court granted Lee's attorney 13 months to file the appeal, mainly because of Hurricane Katrina. But the paperwork is in and we have our first look at why Derrick Todd Lee wants a new trial.

The Louisiana Supreme Court now has Derrick Todd Lee's request for a new trial. Lee's attorneys cite 32 errors that they say warrant a new trial. Prosecutors are not surprised.

Lead prosecutor John Sinquefield says, "We're confident we're on solid legal ground and Mr. Lee's appeal will be denied and his conviction and sentence will be upheld."

Lynne Marino says, "I will not rest until he's dead."

Lynne Marino's daughter, Pam Kinnemore was connected by DNA to Lee's serial killing spree. While Lee was eventually convicted of killing Murray Pace, all of the victims' families feel connected, and frightened.

Marino says, "There's a fear...what if he gets out? This man is smart; this man is cunning. He knows the area; he stalks his victims like a animal with its prey. I worry to death about this man getting out."

Marino says she will be more involved in keeping an eye on convicted killers until their death sentences are ultimately carried out, especially the man who killed her daughter.

"There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about my child that I lost. But like I said, as long as I'm around, I'll do everything I possibly can to speed up his execution," says Marino.

The appeal is 52 pages. Lead prosecutor John Sinquefield says his office has 30 days to respond. He adds that many of the objections have already been addressed by the Louisiana Supreme Court in pre-trial rulings. Lee's defense attorney, Marcia Widder did not return our messages.

Reporter:  Jim Shannon, WAFB 9NEWS