Nantucket News

The trial on Thomas Toolan for the murder of Beth Lochtefeld began this morning with opening arguments and a visit to the murder site. Here’s the latest from the WNAN Blog on the trial.

Friday June 8, 2007

9:45am
Opening arguments began. Prosecutor Brian Glenny spoke for 30 minutes presenting the facts of the case. Defense Attorney Kevin Reddington began by requesting that the Judge remind the jury that opening arguments are not evidence. He directed the jury to remember to leave all emotion out of the trial. He said, “People are suffering from mental disease and many times you can’t tell. This was an act of desperation by a man who has been victim of the ultimate rejection.” Reddington used movie examples to illustrate seemingly well-functional human beings who were suffering hidden mental diseases. He spoke for 20 minutes.

10:50am
The jurors, Defense Attorney, and Prosecutor boarded a Nantucket Island Tours Bus to go and view the Nantucket Airport, Brant Point Marine, and 1A Hawthorne Lane, where the crime took place.

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From an article by Marli Guzzetta in the Nantucket Independent: “Democratic candidate for president and junior senator from Illinois, Barack Obama is tentatively scheduled to make a Nantucket campaign stop on Friday, July 20. Obama is expected to keynote two events - a larger, daytime event and then a private evening event at an island home.” Lou Sussman is hosting the appearances. Mimi Beman, owner of Mitchell’s Book Corner, and part-time resident Doug Rediker are assisting in the events’ planning.