We Know Now That’s a Lie
Were the words Calumet County Sheriff Gerald (Jerry) Pagel used in November, 2005.
Pagel based this statement on the claim that Steven Avery made about not being in the Toyota RAV of Teresa Halbach. However, on 11 November, 2005, Avery’s DNA had been found in material taken from Halbach’s vehicle. And, Avery’s DNA (and only Avery’s DNA) had been identified on the troublesome key that operated the ignition in the Halbach vehicle. The key was discovered in plain sight after several searches of Avery’s home.
Pagel’s announcement was a time honored technique of undermining the suspected. Rather than a simple of statement that Avery’s DNA had been found in the car, the Sheriff chose to wax dramatic.
This is not behavior that is unique to Sheriff Pagel. It seems that when people get a spotlight, there is a need to posture a bit. A ‘just the facts’ approach is a legitimate way to release information. The drama queen approach is not. But, the opposite occurs more often than not.
When we fast forward to March 1, 2006, and view the Ken Kratz public relations speech on the Brendan Dassey confession, we find that it was based on evidence that was not collected nor would the evidence be found. And, the complaint against Brendan Dassey, signed by Tom Fassbender and Kenneth Kratz was a false complaint. The Dassey confession was used to add more charges against Steven Avery. The Dassey confession was used to explain anomalous evidence and secure new search warrants; which led to the belated finding of the magic bullet.
From what I understand, the televised attempt to convict Avery before trial by Kratz is considered a legitimate act for a prosecutor. For us mere mortals, a different standard applies. If we were to make such statement publicly, even with evidence, we would be liable.
But, the swearing by Investigator Mark Wiegert and Special Agent Tom Fassbender for court documents regarding the Dassey confession is a different matter. These documents have led to the incarceration of a Brendan Dassey for over a year. These documents have added three charges to Avery’s criminal complaint, of which two have been withdrawn by the State.
There have been not PR releases by Pagel on these. Why not “On 1 March, 2006, Special Prosecutor Ken Kratz announced in detail the actions of Brendan Dassey against Teresa Halbach. We now know that to be a lie.” And, “Documents produced by Calumet County Investigator Mark Wiegert and Wisconsin Special Agent Tom Fassbender, accused Brendan Dassey of taking part in the rape, torture, and murder of Teresa Halbach. We now know those to be lies.”
by Brian McCorkle
in category Brendan Dassey,Steven Avery
