21 days ago
STOCKTON, CA - The Tracy woman accused of raping and killing 8-year-old Sandra Cantu now has a second attorney helping with her death penalty case.
Melissa Huckaby was back in San Joaquin County Superior Court Friday, and it was announced by defense attorney Sam Behar that Bay Area attorney Michael Burt is on the defense team as well.
Burt specializes in defending death penalty cases, and his work is financed through a fund that allows for a second attorney.
"Miss Huckaby is getting some very competent counsel. The death penalty is society's ultimate sanction and she's entitled to a very aggressive and vigorous defense," said attorney and legal observer Steven Clark.
Judge Linda Lofthus announced in court she was pleased with the progress made by defense attorney Behar in preparing for the case. She said based on that progress, she'll announce a trial date for Huckaby when she's back in court Dec. 4.
Despite prosecutor Tom Testa's desire to move the Huckaby case along at a faster rate, Assistant District Attorney Robert Himelblau said the timing was typical.
"I don't think the case is going slower. It's going as fast as it can, given the court schedule. It takes awhile," said Himelblau.
News10/KXTV
