Video of John Gardner’s arraignment, charged with attempted rape and murder of Chelsea King
The man accused of the attempted rape and murder of San Diego high school student Chelsea King was arraigned in court today. You may see the full video of John Gardner’s arraignment in the video player below. As the nation mourns the loss of a beautiful and apparently fun and wonderful girl, many wonder why John Gardner was out of prison to begin with. There is no doubt that this horrible act of violence will spark discussions, and hopefully future action, regarding the monitoring and sentencing of sex offenders.
Photos: Chelsea's body found and candlelight vigil (full press conference video)
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Deputy Public Defender Michael Hopkins represented John Gardner and stated, “We would waive arraignment. As we waive the reading of the complaint. Also waive reading of his rights at this time. Mr. Gardener wishes to enter a plea of not guilty to both counts.”
It is unclear why John Gardner waived his right to hear the charges against him. It is possible that Michael Hopkins feels that with the media scrutiny the announcement would further prejudice his client.
However, authorities state that James Gardner’s DNA was found on Chelsea King’s underwear. The underwear was found in the vicinity where her body was located. Though authorities have stated they believe the body of Chelsea King has been found, the Medical Examiner’s results have been sealed.
Chelsea’s body was found in the same neighborhood where John Gardner was staying with his mother. John Gardner entered a plea of not guilty.
In the case of Chelsea King, John Gardner was charged with murder with a special circumstance of rape. He was also charged with intent to commit sexual assault on another girl who was victimized on December 27, 2009.
Due to the special circumstance of rape, it is possible that the death penalty may be introduced in the case.
John Gardner will make his next court appearnces on 3/9/10 at 8:30 A.M. for a status hearing. He will have a preliminary hearing on 3/9/10, 8:30 A.M.
John Albert Gardner III looks toward the judge at an arraignment where he pleaded not guilty to murder and other charges in the case involving teenager Chelsea King in a San Diego Superior Courtroom Wednesday March 3, 2010 in San Diego. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)
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