Judge: Hon. John Feeney
Courtroom 1
Prosecutors: Andrew Issac and Stacey Eads
Defense: Kaleb Cockrum
Mr. Cockrum from Conflict Counsel requested a hearing today to enter a change in plea for Gary Lee Bullock ,the suspect in the murder of Fr. Eric Freed on New Year's Day last year.
Fr. Eric's family was expected to be here for the trial. Today, in courthis twin sister was present. After the hearing, she left with Mr. Issac. She was seated in court with her lawyer, Kathleen Bryson.
Judge John Feeney is meeting with attorneys privately tomorrow at 4 in his chambers to discuss this matter further. The private meeting is on the request of Mr. Cockrum. Mr. Issac told Judge Feeney that Mr. Cockrum has now placed "a cascade of administrative responsibilities of your shoulders." Mr. Issac added, "he did have things he wanted to say" he did not oppose the discussion be continued in private chambers. "This will impact jury selection and the trial."
The next step is for a psychologist or psychiatrist may be appointed. Judge Feeney has to grant this request because he would not want a verdict turned over on appeal. The evaluation could take months. The defense has requested three continuances for the same reasons, now with this change in plea, they know the trial date of March 2 will be vacated. Just a back-handed way of Mr. Cockrum getting another continuance.
Bullock in a monotone, emotionless voice read a short script that he was not guilty of the offenses charged. "I believe that I am not guilty of the offenses charged because I was insane at the time...I plead not guilty and deny all allegations."
His plea of not guilty by reason of insanity is added to his existing plea. Judge Feeney made sure that Bullock knew this. He also advised Bullock that even if he is found not guilty by reason of insanity that there can be "a possible liftetime commitment to a state mental institution."
Only Will Houston from the Times-Standard and I were at the hearing.
Previous post/opinion I did on California's insanity defense and the Bullock case:
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/11/will-fr-erics-murderer-go-for.html
he made the decision to use drugs... he made the decision to kill Fr. Freed... was it crazy of him to do so? yes, does it change the fact that he did it? no, it doesn't... he made the decision to do this! no excuses allowed! he made the decision to hurt many people that day by killing the one person that could possibly have helped him... no sympathy for this fool... none
ReplyDeleteCountry, I agree with you. I forgave this man 3 weeks after Fr. Eric was killed for that act. I have prayed for him, hoping he accepts what he has done and does not drag us all through an uneccessary trial. If he accepted responsibility that would be another level of forgiveness, hard as it would be, I would sincerely take that step.
DeleteHis lack of remorse, his cold eyes, his complete disregard for anyone but himself and his completely worthless mother and step father that enabled him for years makes it hard to be stoic.
Fr. Eric's death affected so many people. Except for the family, we wont get to say anything in court, many won't be able to attend.
This man grows fat every day on tax payer dime, he has a public defender on tax payer dime, now he wants a psychologist on tax payer dime. No one forced him to break in, to do drugs, to commit the crime of torture and murder, not to mention his insanity before that day.
I do not believe he is insane. He tried to burn and destroy evidence, he hid the car he stole and he fooled the police.
He and his family have the resources to help with any problems he has, he is just a coward taking the easy way out, again.
Thank you for the update, John. I agree with Country. I'm sure it's difficult for you to cover this case as a member of Fr. Freed's church. My parents are quite active in SB church and, though I am not a member, feel pain for your parish. I don't like asking them questions about the matter, so I appreciate your coverage.
ReplyDeleteAgain, I agree with Country. Bullock shouldn't see the light of day. Ever. "Insanity" due to using drugs by choice is not insanity. It's just a druggie being a druggie.
Thank you for your comment Elizabeth. It is hard for me because I am a St. Bernard's parishioner but also because of what I do in ministries. I saw Fr. Eric every day as I do the priests at St. Bernard's. Worked closely so there is never a time I don't miss him. Your kindness means a lot.
DeletePlease feel free to email me with questions privately if you want more information.
Please feel free if you come to church with your parents to introduce yourself.