STATEMENT FROM STATE’S ATTORNEY JOE BIRKETT REGARDING THE IMPOSTION OF THE DEATH PENALTY IN THE ERIC HANSON CASE

The decision whether or not to seek the death penalty should be based upon the nature of the crime, the evidence and the character of the offender.  This is exactly what happened in this case. 

            Our obligation was to seek justice through vigorous and fair advocacy and we have done just that. 

            I would like to thank the prosecution team of Robert Berlin, Michael Wolfe and Nancy Wolfe for their outstanding work on this very emotional case.  These dedicated professionals deserve public admiration for performing crucial roles, as does Judge Robert Anderson and the courageous jury. 

            Throughout this process, Eric Hanson’s rights were respected.  Steps were taken to ensure that he received a fair and impartial trial despite the monstrous crimes he committed.  The death penalty was the only appropriate punishment for Eric Hanson and as Bob Berlin said ‘this penalty speaks volumes about the value of the innocent lives that the defendant took in a savage way on September 28, 2005.’ 

            I would also like to thank the Aurora and Naperville Police Departments, The Columbia County Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, the FBI the L.A. County Police Department, the L.A P.D. and all the civilian witnesses that helped ensure that justice was done in the name of Terrance Hanson, Mary Hanson, Kate Hanson Tsao and Jimmy Tsao.”

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