Prosecutors Weigh Third Trial in Etan Patz murder Case
New York, NY - Manhattan prosecutors are considering pursuing a third trial in the 1979 disappearance of six-year-old Etan Patz, even as defence attorneys push for the immediate release of Pedro Hernandez, whose conviction was overturned this July. The decision comes amid concerns about witness availability and a planned appeal to the US Supreme Court.
The case, which captivated the nation and reshaped how missing children cases were handled, has seen decades of legal battles. Hernandez was twice convicted of Patz’s murder, but both verdicts were thrown out due to errors. The Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Hernandez’s favor, citing a flawed jury instruction. His legal team argues the initial instruction prejudiced the jury and conflicted with established legal precedent, maintaining ”an innocent man is sitting in jail right now” and seeking his swift release.
during a Thursday court hearing, prosecutors revealed challenges in preparing for a potential retrial, noting that some witnesses are elderly, deceased, or have relocated. Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo stated that some witnesses “never thought they’d have to testify again.” Despite these hurdles,the Manhattan District Attorney’s office maintains Hernandez was justly convicted and intends to appeal the Second Circuit’s decision to the Supreme Court,though the court’s willingness to hear the case remains uncertain.
The prosecution has requested additional time to determine whether to proceed with a third trial, citing “considerable legal questions” surrounding the appeals court’s ruling. The case continues to deeply impact the Patz family and remains a stark reminder of the enduring pain of unsolved disappearances.
