Prosecutor says Meister appeal opinion now in AG’s hands

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By Greg Meyer

Summary

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson says he is waiting for the Supreme Court’s opinion to be clarified by the Attorney General’s Office before taking any steps in preparing for a new trial for David Meister.

Story Published: Jul 9, 2009 at 7:20 AM PST

Story Updated: Jul 9, 2009 at 7:20 AM PST

MOSCOW - Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson says it’s not yet time for his office to start preparing for a new trial for David Meister.

On Wednesday, Thompson said the court's opinion is not final. He said his office is waiting to see if there is any clarification forthcoming from the Attorney General's Office. Thompson said once it is final, he will review it and take whatever action is necessary.

If the opinion stands as is, Thompson said Meister would be transported back to Latah County for another trial. Thompson said it should be resolved within the next three weeks.

Meister was convicted of murdering Moscow resident Tonya Hart in 2001. He was sentenced to life in prison by 2nd District Judge John Stegner.

The Supreme Court said Meister was not allowed to fully defend himself, because the wrong standard was applied when disallowing evidence of a so-called "alternate perpetrator."

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