Dilligaf writes:
I can guarantee that the Felony Murder rule was not at the top of the strategy list when the retrial came about. However, I agree that using robbery as an underlying crime certainly qualified for Felony Murder, and was a good call. As far as whether that is the reason that LVH is still rightfully wear she belongs, is possible, given the sentencing guidelines, as well as parole guidelines, at the time.
In California’s laws today, a First Degree Murder conviction without qualifying enhancements, would keep her where she is. LWOP is a beautiful thing, but even in today’s world, is it a guarantee. California today has many proponents of eliminating it, as they believe that it is too harsh a sentence. Sounds much like the soap opera As The World Turns, you never know what is going to come along next...