The Candid Review: A Blog About Appeals

As an California appeals lawyer discusses, new details have emerged tying the former so-called Southside Slayer killer of even more deaths.

The History of the Case
In the late 80s and through most of the 90s, a crack cocaine epidemic plagued the L.A. area. Countless numbers of addicted women turned to prostitution in order to support their habit. It was during this backdrop that a series of grisly murders played out. A rash of serial killings occurred and the media dubbed the as yet unknown assailant the “Southside Slayer.” Police later determined these murders were committed by at least three different people. One of them, 47-year-old Chester Turner, is in the news again.

The Jury’s Findings
As a California appeals attorney explains Turner was charged and put on trial for the murders between the period of 1987 through 1997. A jury found him guilty of strangling ten women; he received the death penalty for those crimes. One of Turner’s victims was pregnant, so Turner received 15 years to life for the killing of her unborn baby as well. He was convicted in 2007 of those killings. As an Illinois federal appeals lawyer discusses, more DNA evidence has recently come to light linking Turner to four more murders. He was tried for those and recently convicted in all of them. The jury apparently deliberated for less than a day and the death penalty has been recommended again.

The others suspected of perpetrating murders in the Southside Slayings have also been apprehended. One is serving a life sentence and the other is still awaiting trial but has pleaded not guilty.

To speak to a knowledgeable California federal appeals attorney, contact the offices of Brownstone Law. Our attorneys and consultants can review your case and help you understand the best way to proceed. Call 855.776.2773 to make an appointment.