DNA Evidence May Prove Father Innocent of Daughter's Murder

Jerry Hobbs was convicted for the murders of his 8-year-old daughter and her 9-year-old friend.  Now, new DNA evidence links another man to the crime.  Nevertheless, Hobbs will remain in jail, at least for the time being.  The State's Attorney told the Court that they need more time to investigate.  Hobb's lawyer agreed to a two-week delay but informed the Court that he believes his client should be released now.

From the Chicago Tribune, Lisa Black reporting:

Prosecutors told a Lake County judge this morning they want more time to investigate the evidence. Judge Fred Foreman agreed and set a hearing for July 21 to discuss how to proceed. In the meantime, he ordered the state's attorney's office to keep Hobbs' lawyers apprised of their findings.


"We hope that everybody makes this the No. 1 priority over the next two weeks," Foreman said. He kept intact an Oct. 6 trial date for Hobbs.

Hobbs, flanked by two guards, appeared in court in a blue jump suit. He did not speak or show any emotion during today's hearing.

"The investigation is still ongoing," said Michael Mermel, assistant state's attorney. "We advised the judge that we have this new information. It was the state's efforts that got this new evidence to happen."

The public defender representing Hobbs agreed to the two-week period for further investigation, with reservations.

"We would prefer that he be let out now," said Greg Ticsay, assistant public defender.

"We asked that he be released a year ago. You heard about the evidence. It is substantial."

On Tuesday, officials confirmed that a DNA sample found on Hobbs' daughter Laura has been linked to another man who's in custody in Virginia.

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