WICHITA, Kan., Feb. 7 (UPI) -- A federal investigation of Kansas abortion doctor killer Scott Roeder could shed light on possible accomplices, an expert says.
Richard Levy, a University of Kansas law professor who followed Roeder's trial, told Sunday's Kansas City Star that even though Roeder is assured of a long sentence after his state conviction in the Wichita, Kan., slaying of Dr. George Tiller in May 2009, additional federal charges could unearth more information.
"(One) reason for a federal prosecution is that if there might be others involved, a federal case might provide a vehicle for getting that information, whereas the state may not have an interest or the wherewithal to investigate a conspiracy that involves people in several states," Levy told the newspaper.
Also, he told the Star, conviction on federal charges could assure that Roeder never receives parole.
Federal charges "really do help prevent other violent activity," added Vicki Saporta, president of the National Abortion Federation. "It serves as a deterrent for those who might want to follow in their footsteps."
