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CNN Live Today

Westerfield Penalty Phase Resumes

Aired September 03, 2002 - 12:59   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


KYRA PHILLIPS, CNN ANCHOR: The court's weekend recess ended today in San Diego, and defense witnesses are telling jurors that convicted child killer David Westerfield's life should be spared.
CNN's Frank Buckley is covering the penalty phase of the Westerfield trial. He brings us up to date on what is happening -- hi, Frank.

FRANK BUCKLEY, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi there, Kyra. The penalty phase in a break, mid-morning break right now, but on the stand this morning, again, friends and family members of David Westerfield. Earlier this morning, two aunts of David Westerfield testifying about the convicted killer as a boy, the David Westerfield they know, trying to present a picture of David Westerfield as a whole person, not just as the image of the convicted killer that people have come to know. Also testifying this morning, in the most emotional moment of the morning, a childhood -- a high school sweetheart of David Westerfield.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: This is a card that I sent David, when -- I think it was around Easter-time.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This year?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Could you read it, please?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: "Dear David, you once told me that if I ever needed anything, I should call you. I carried that gift of love and care with me to various points on the globe, and it is a wonderful thing to feel loved. Now, if there is anything that I can do for you, please let me know."

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BUCKLEY: Deputy district attorney Jeff Dusek, however, during cross-examination made the point that this woman dated David Westerfield more than 30 years ago. Testimony expected to resume here shortly -- Kyra.

PHILLIPS: All right, Frank Buckley, thanks so much.

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