Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Dad on trial for killing 4-month-old son; blames mom (Parker, South Dakota)

Sounds like the usual defense tactics. Blame Mom! Even though I presume that the baby's death was investigated and suffocation was ruled out as a cause of death. Nope, appears to be the usual case where a "frustrated" father beat up and shook the baby to death. And is now trying to duck responsibility.

Dad is identified as CHRIS MILLER.

http://www.argusleader.com/viewart/20130123/UPDATES/301230054/Father-accused-killing-son-accuses-baby-s-mother-trial

Father accused of killing son accuses baby's mother in trial

Jan. 23, 2013 7:28 AM

Written by Associated Press

PARKER — Prosecutors say a South Dakota man on trial in the death of his infant son beat and shook the child, leading to his death. Defense attorneys say the boy was inadvertently suffocated by his mother.

Thirty-nine-year-old Chris Miller, of Scotland, is on trial in Parker on several charges including second-degree murder in the March 2011 death of 4-month-old Jacob Miller. Attorneys on both sides gave their opening statements to the jury Tuesday.

Prosecutor Lisa Rothschadl told jurors that Miller abused his son and that the boy died of injuries that “were not accidental.”

Defense attorney Tim Whalen told the jury that Miller’s wife, Stacy, rolled over on Jacob while drunk.

Judge Glen Eng has blocked off 10 days for the trial. Miller faces life in prison if convicted of murder.