Dalia Dippolito’s criminal defense attorneys will continue to argue police misconduct for the forthcoming the third trial for the allegations of trying to hire a hit-man to kill her then-husband, Michael Dippolito in 2009. The tactic used during the second trial was also police misconduct, causing a hung jury. Of six jurors, three were persuaded enough to cause a mistrial.
Dippolito’s argument has been that she thought the conversations held regarding the hit man hiring were for a reality television show she and Michael were involved in. She was recorded by undercover police saying, she was ” 5,000 percent sure I want it done”, referring to the murder. She was also sure that she would not be accused of the murder plans.
Her defense team is arguing that police misconduct took place noting that they want to ensure they are held accountable for their actions. Some of the misconduct pointed out by Dippolito’s attorney was lack of police checking whether or not Dalia was a “victim of domestic abuse,” evidence that was destroyed, and the posting of the staged crime scene by Boynton Beach police on YouTube, which went viral.
Part of the problem with selecting jurors has been because of the exposure from media surrounding the case, but previous bids from Dippolito’s attorneys to have the trial moved out of Palm Beach County were denied. However, Jeffrey Katz, Boyne Beach’s Police Chief does support the detectives in this case and agrees that the media has influenced the manner in which police are viewed.
For now, Dalia Dippolito, now with an infant son, still remains on house arrest and has a $25,000 bond.
Criminal charges are a serious matter. If you are charged with a crime, speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to help ensure that your rights are protected.
Reference:
Freeman, M. (2016, December 14) As third trial looms, Dalia Dippolito’s lawyers plan to stick with condemn-the-cops defense. Sin Sentinel. Retrieved December 27, 2016 from: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/palm-beach/fl-dalia-dippolito-retrial-day-six-20161214-story.html