Court Refuses To Reconsider Spector’s Appeal

An appeals court has refused to reconsider music producer Phil Spector’s appeal of his murder conviction, saying there was overwhelming evidence of his guilt.

The California 2nd District Court of Appeal panel acknowledged it did not consider an issue that defense lawyers now say was critical.

Attorneys said the trial judge prejudiced the case by allowing prosecutors to use pictures of him in closing argument as if he was a witness.

The denial, handed down Thursday, said the lawyers gave the issue only cursory treatment in their first appellate brief which was inadequate.

Photo: AP Photo

Sitting in a courtroom for his sentencing in Los Angeles.

Spector, a legendary rock music producer, was convicted two years ago of fatally shooting actress Lana Clarkson at his Alhambra mansion in 2003. He is serving 19 years to life in prison on a second-degree murder conviction.