PA-Elaine M Pierson murder

[Snoopy220]

Elaine Pierson was on a cell call when she heard a noise outside her mountain home of 5 acres with a private long drive. Her dog Radcliffe made no motion as the door was opened. Her cell phone, glasses, car keys were left with no disruption. 9 days later (2 days after PA State Police stopped their 1,000 acre canvass) an ex-lover found her body near a log along a road. I would think in Harrisburg mountains, hunters should have found Elaine's body. Too coincidental? The PA police are being very quiet in regard to Elaine's death. If police were searching for ballistic evidence, after 15 days wouldn't they have any evidence by now from Rochelle's clothing they collected? How about tracking tire tracks in the woods/mountains? :flamemad:

[Snoopy220]

Good news..

The woman who helped "find" her body January 7th has been arrested and charged with kidnapping, burglary and murder. Elaine was shot at close range 4 times with a Colt antique gun from her Mother's house. What amazes me is January 8th the PA State police went to Rochelle Laudenslager's and her Mother Mary's home. Why didn't Mrs Laudenslager tell the police that Rochelle brought the antique gun back to the home in a plastic bag, containing some of Elaine's blood inside? And also that her daughter went to the attic to hide it in the insulation..the same day Elaine was killed in the woods 3 miles from her beautiful home? That conversation would have saved Elaine's wonderful family in Phoenixville PA from days of agony not knowing where Elaine was, dead or alive.
Shouldn't her mother be charged with obstruction of justice and withholding evidence? This is a horrific murder. Imagine being kidnapped from your home in your pajamas at gun point.
I want to know the Mercedes fella's involvement in this. He and Rochelle were friends, and he was on the phone with Elaine when she heard the noise outside of her home. Rochelle knew it would be easy as no one lived nearby her 5 acre mountain top home. What was stolen from Elaine's home? She wasn't poor by any means, and neither was Rochelle. They were both very successful businesswomen in management. Dun and Bradstreet for Elaine.
I am glad for her friends and family that there can be some resolve to this horror.
May the court system give what Rochelle deserves....a life of horror behind bars, the death penalty they are seeking, and eternity in Hell for taking away a life so important and wonderful. Christmas at the Pierson's shall never be the same. God bless Elaine.

[packy]

How horrible. I hadn't heard about this case. Is there a trial going on now?

[Snoopy220]

Her ex lover Rochelle is to be in trial this coming Wednesday after being held in the Perry County jail. I cannot imagine how another woman could kill a woman she loved and wanted to become intimate again. I am sure Elaine found someone more stabe and intersting than Rochelle. After all, what "sane" woman clobbers her sister in the head sleeping in bed with a frying pan. Rochelle denied that action as well.
It seems to me this is the first case of a lesbian killing a former lover. It just doesn't make sense to me, unless Elaine completely denied the desire to have a relationship with this evil woman. Seems to me if Elaine heard noises outside her secluded home (no door bell use) that Rochelle planned before driving there to kidnap her in her pajamas. I can't imagine killing an animal with 4 shots, but to watch a beautiful caring giving friend die in the woods without her slippers or socks on in the bitter winter in PA deserves the death penalty.

see archives of www.whtm.com

[bchand]

This took place in my neck of the woods so I am familiar with it also.

My husband and I agree with you Snoopy that Rochelle's mother could or should be charged with something. She was well aware of Rochelle's history of violence.

btw did you read that Highmark made an announcement that Rochelle no longer works for them?

[Hbgchick]

Highmark has officially fired Rochelle and says they will work with police in any way they can. In my line of work I have often visited Highmark - it's a lovely facility and it sounds like she had a great job. This woman must be very disturbed.

Also, she (Rochelle) lives (lived) only about two miles from me! Right around the corner, literally!! :eek:

[Hbgchick]

Highmark has officially fired Rochelle and says they will work with police in any way they can. In my line of work I have often visited Highmark - it's a lovely facility and it sounds like she had a great job. This woman must be very disturbed.

Also, she (Rochelle) lives (lived) only about two miles from me! Right around the corner, literally!! :eek:

[bchand]

Highmark has officially fired Rochelle and says they will work with police in any way they can. In my line of work I have often visited Highmark - it's a lovely facility and it sounds like she had a great job. This woman must be very disturbed.

Also, she (Rochelle) lives (lived) only about two miles from me! Right around the corner, literally!! :eek:



:eek: is right. I wondered (before she was charged) how she could ever go back to Highmark with all that is now known about her past. Not the most stable person is she?


(I'm about 2 miles from Highmark)

[Snoopy220]

bchand:

I and a co worker can't understand how Elaine could have been overpowered by this skinny woman. I have a very fond memory of playing in the barn with Elaine way back in the 60's. She had me jumping off of hay stacks in the barn. Her home was an adventure for me, and I cringe every time I think of her suffering.

If Rochelle's Mother saw her bring the gun back in a bag, and I am sure it was not a clean bag, why did her Mother not question what that was all about. The police were at the house the next day, why didn't Mary tell them her daughter brought back the commemorative gun in a bag? Mary L ought to be charged with obstruction of justice. If this was a family heirloom, and was hard to shoot, Rochelle had such premeditation to cause harm.

Why even torture the wonderful Pierson family and friends with a trial. Rochelle should simply confess and be shot to death in the woods after being driven around for a while.

If you are familiar with the area, why wasn't her body discovered more quickly? She had a white shirt on from what I understand. Is this area secluded in the deep woods?

Does anyone know what happened to Radcliffe her beloved dog and companion?

[bchand]

bchand:

I and a co worker can't understand how Elaine could have been overpowered by this skinny woman. I have a very fond memory of playing in the barn with Elaine way back in the 60's. She had me jumping off of hay stacks in the barn. Her home was an adventure for me, and I cringe every time I think of her suffering.

If Rochelle's Mother saw her bring the gun back in a bag, and I am sure it was not a clean bag, why did her Mother not question what that was all about. The police were at the house the next day, why didn't Mary tell them her daughter brought back the commemorative gun in a bag? Mary L ought to be charged with obstruction of justice. If this was a family heirloom, and was hard to shoot, Rochelle had such premeditation to cause harm.

Why even torture the wonderful Pierson family and friends with a trial. Rochelle should simply confess and be shot to death in the woods after being driven around for a while.

If you are familiar with the area, why wasn't her body discovered more quickly? She had a white shirt on from what I understand. Is this area secluded in the deep woods?

Does anyone know what happened to Radcliffe her beloved dog and companion?

As far as being overpowered, I think a gun is a great equalizer. I don't think she left in her PJ's voluntarily. IIRC she wasn't deep in the woods when the killer happened along with a group of her friends to find her. If this area had been searched before, there's a possibility she was moved? I read somewhere that LE is still looking at someone else as a possible accomplice?

The good thing about this area is that it won't be drug out like so many of the cases we see on Court TV. We should know the whole story soon.

[WordsMatter]

Article with details...

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/02/18/news/news274.prt

[Serendipitous1]

Article with details...

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/02/18/news/news274.prtExcellent article, WM: [Perry County DA] "Chenot said authorities will continue to investigate whether there were other people involved in the murder. [Pierson's friend Antonio] Mercede, who reported her missing, has been interviewed and may be again, he said. Police have 'at least a half-dozen, maybe more' people they want to interview again, Chenot said. 'It would not surprise me at all if (Mercede's) name is on that list.'”

bchand and Snoopy, based on earlier published articles: The initial search started around Pierson's home. Helicopter searches were made on Sat/Sun (Dec 30/31). The official ground search widened on Wed/Thur (Jan 3/4) but still concentrated on the woods closer to Pierson's home [apparently not spreading quite far enough south and west]. It rained hard most of the day on Fri. The private search party went out on Sat morning. The location where they discovered Pierson's body was down a steep road embankment, about 3 miles southwest of Pierson's home, on Blue Mountain and just barely in Perry County.

It is curious that the helicopter search failed to find her. But based on what information has been released so far, it appears that Pierson was kidnapped at gunpoint, driven to this isolated location (in the mountains, avoiding Marysville), killed there, and that the murder weapon was taken to Gratz - all on Wed night, Dec 27.

[Snoopy220]

I read her lawyer is looking at Rochelle's doctor's visiting record as Rochelle claims she was at the doctors on the 27th. However she still had the gun, so where is her lawyer going with this angle? Maybe that Mercede fella was in on it with her. I recall reading that Elaine called him. Is that correct?
Maybe the both of them moved her body. The police have not released if they found any evidence in both of Rochelle's cars. I understand her preliminary has been delayed. Anyone there know when it is rescheduled to?

[Serendipitous1]

I read her lawyer is looking at Rochelle's doctor's visiting record as Rochelle claims she was at the doctors on the 27th. However she still had the gun, so where is her lawyer going with this angle? Maybe that Mercede fella was in on it with her. I recall reading that Elaine called him. Is that correct?
Maybe the both of them moved her body. The police have not released if they found any evidence in both of Rochelle's cars. I understand her preliminary has been delayed. Anyone there know when it is rescheduled to?I suspect LE has to come up with a time line. It would not bode well if Rochelle was sitting in a doctor's office when she was supposedly doing something else. "Mercede has not wanted to comment about the case, but his sister, Marianne Cowden, has said her brother was the person believed to have spoken to Pierson in her last known conversation the night of Dec. 27."
http://www.pennlive.com/search/index.ssf?/base/news/117142440244380.xml?pennnews&coll=1

"A preliminary hearing scheduled today for Rochelle Laudenslager has been postponed until March...now scheduled for 1:30 p.m. March 7."

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/02/21/news/news223.txt

[Serendipitous1]

First link got screwed up somehow. Try:
http://www.pennlive.com/patriotnews/stories/index.ssf?/base/news/117142440244380.xml&coll=1

[Snoopy220]

Serendipitous1:

Ok, so she was at the doctor's office. How did the killer get her family's commemorative gun, and what time did she go to her Mother's home in Gratz with the spent gun in the plastic bag? Is that nearby to where Rochelle or Blue Mountain is?
I guess it would not surprise me if Mercede and she were in this together, but I still cannot comprehend how a woman could be involved in such a horrific crime. I understand Elaine had defensive wounds, and I am sure attempted to run away. I pray she did not suffer.

[Serendipitous1]

Serendipitous1:

Ok, so she was at the doctor's office. How did the killer get her family's commemorative gun, and what time did she go to her Mother's home in Gratz with the spent gun in the plastic bag? Is that nearby to where Rochelle or Blue Mountain is?
I guess it would not surprise me if Mercede and she were in this together, but I still cannot comprehend how a woman could be involved in such a horrific crime. I understand Elaine had defensive wounds, and I am sure attempted to run away. I pray she did not suffer.I do not believe the doctor's appointment (or whether she kept it) has been confirmed yet, only that that was her statement to police and they are checking it out. Looking at a road map, one could easily continue south, down Blue Mountain, then east on Wertzville Road to get to I-81 and across the river. Perhaps not coincidentally, that is the way to Rochelle's home and to Gratz (both in Dauphin County). It remains to be seen why LE appears to be interested in Mercede in connection with Elaine's death, although recent news articles have raised some issues concerning him. All just my opinion.

[Snoopy220]

I googled and found that Rochelle broke in to the home. Premeditation here we go. And she took the gun from her Mother's home. Burglary.
Where does Mercede live? Is it close to Elaine or Rochelle. I understand they all knew each other.
If Elaine and Rochelle hadn't physically connected but via the phone, what would inspire someone to go to such drastic measures? I still cannot understand this. I see she was a troubled woman (after clobbering her sister in the head with a frying pan while she slept in Reno..and Rochelle was committed to a State Hospital..and was released).
Good thing she's behind bars.
Does anyone know what happened to Elaine's dog Radcliffe? I love that name.

[Serendipitous1]

Pierson lived just west of Marysville and her body was reportedly found near the intersection of Idle and Lambs Gap Roads. Laudenslager lives in the Harrisburg area and her mother in Gratz. Mercede apparently lives with his sister in the Mechanicsburg area. The addresses can all be found online. In checking an online travel guide, I found out the following:

All except Laudenslager's mother lived within about a half hour's drive of each other. From Pierson's home, west to Lambs Gap Road, then south to Idle Road, is about 3.5 miles or less than a 10 minute drive.

From Idle & Lambs Gap Roads, the quickest route to Laudenslager's home is to continue south, down Blue Mountain, then east to pick up I-81 (about 16 miles or less than half an hour's drive). From there it is about 42 miles or an hour's drive to Gratz. From Idle & Lambs Gap Roads, the quickest route directly to Gratz is also south, down Blue Mountain, and east to pick up I-81 (about 43 miles or an hour's drive).

Inerestingly, from Idle & Lambs Gap Roads, the quickest route to Mercede's sister's home is also to continue south, down Blue Mountain (about 7 miles or a 15 minute drive).

[Serendipitous1]

Magisterial District Judge, Docket Entries:

http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;CR-0000027-07,district;41-3-03&ST=2/22/2007%207:16:04%20PM

[bchand]

Magisterial District Judge, Docket Entries:

http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;CR-0000027-07,district;41-3-03&ST=2/22/2007%207:16:04%20PM


Thanks Serendipitous - you sure are thorough.. Hope you are around for this trial.

[Sunny71]

Just a quick note for Snoopy220 . . .

One of your entrees you had questioned about Radcliffe's care.
Last I heard he was staying with neighbors and doing fine.

I am still amazed every day when I google Elaine's name that something like this happened. I know justice will prevail.

[Serendipitous1]

Anyone familiar with "The Work of Byron Katie"...beyond what is on the website? When Laudenslager offered to be a "facilitator" last April, her profile included:

Q - Issues where The Work has been helpful in your life or in working with clients?
A - Family issues; Health issues; Relationship issues; Success and failure; Weight, diet or body image; Work place issues [emphasis added].

Q - Any other personal comments that you care to make about The Work and how it affects your life?
A - The Work continues to reveal all answers/wisdom within- working with the true self, not against. As my mind continues to meet itself with understanding, open to seeing alternatives, I notice how a false belief gradually holds less power, unravels and falls away.

http://www.thework.com/network/profile_detail.cfm?pid=971&from=profile_search_results.cfm

Guess "The Work" did not work very well for her! Just my opinion.

[Snoopy220]

Sunny71:

I am still amazed something like this could happen to such a wonderful person. Her family is a very close family, and this is devastating.
I know when I googled Rochelle and read your responses she is a very angry, troubled woman.
I am so glad Radcliffe is in good hands.
I still don't understand what would possess someone to do this to someone she cared about, and wanted to rekindle the flame.
It is my hope that Betty L gets cited for withholding information, obstruction of justice.
How would this fella know to report her missing? I thought he had been away for a year in cancer treatment, and is living with his sister.
Seren..I cannot get the link to the court website.

[Serendipitous1]

<Snip>
Seren..I cannot get the link to the court website.You will need Adobe Reader to view the docket sheets. But I just tried to do it again (using the link and by re-searching), and you are right - the docket sheet does not come up, though I was able to retrieve it through my own site history (which I realize does you no good). I have found this site can be fickle at times. The only advice I can offer is to try the link again later, or search the Public Web Docket Sheets yourself at Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System...starting here:
http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/WebDocketSheets/WebDocketSheets.aspx

In any event, for high profile cases I have found there is usually little information of particular interest on the docket sheets beyond that which is reported in the news media. In fact, the news media reported on Laudenslager's continued preliminary hearing well before it got posted at PUJS.

[WordsMatter]

I can get to the court website but I can't click on the docket #'s. I see previous listings from 8/23/02, 01/20/05, 02/07/06??? Can anyone view what these were for?

[Sunny71]

I am very perplexed about this entire case. From the first day that I heard Elaine was missing, to today. Nothing makes sense. . . . Nothing . . . .

I have only met Elaine one time, a few years ago. But most of my friends have known her for quite sometime. Elaine is the only person, I have known to have a violent crime/attack against her. She was a great person that was kind/friendly to everybody. But, one person in Elaine's life had the power to change her destiny . . .

I too, thought that Betty L. was going to be charged with something?! Maybe she still will? And I'm not too sure what Tony M. has to do with all this????

I'm sure with time, we will learn all the details that happened.
We will probably never learn WHY though . . .

[Hbgchick]

I am very interested in this case as well. I did not know Elaine personally but know people who did, and it's just very sad.

[Serendipitous1]

Magisterial District Judge, Docket Entries:

http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;CR-0000027-07,district;41-3-03&ST=2/22/2007%207:16:04%20PMLink to Perry County criminal docket (above) appears to be working again. Also (to be thorough), link to Dauphin County arraignment:
http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;AR-0000028-07,district;12-1-01&ST=2/26/2007%205:56:20%20PM

Hbgchick, your box is full over at that other site. You must be popular... and/or blonde, LOL!

[Snoopy220]

Serendip..

No matter what I do I cannot bring up docket cr-0000027-07. I have acrobat reader. Any way you or anyone can e-mail me the docket to Lizout@aol.com.

Thank you for your time.:(

[Hbgchick]

Link to Perry County criminal docket (above) appears to be working again. Also (to be thorough), link to Dauphin County arraignment:
http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;AR-0000028-07,district;12-1-01&ST=2/26/2007%205:56:20%20PM

Hbgchick, your box is full over at that other site. You must be popular... and/or blonde, LOL!

Lol...not blonde! Just had a bunch of old RG stuff I needed to clear out. Sorry 'bout that - it's open now!

[Serendipitous1]

Police search murder suspect's bank records:
http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/02/police_search_murder_suspects.html

Was it a crime of passion? Call it what it is:
http://www.pennlive.com/patriotnews/stories/index.ssf?/base/news/1172616916235100.xml&coll=1

Somewhat interesting blog:
http://www.pennlive.com/forums/perry/index.ssf?extlink?artid=668

[Serendipitous1]

Video of Laudenslager's arraignment:
http://www.whtm.com/news/stories/0207/397802.html

[Serendipitous1]

I can get to the court website but I can't click on the docket #'s. I see previous listings from 8/23/02, 01/20/05, 02/07/06??? Can anyone view what these were for?Those were traffic related offenses.

[Serendipitous1]

"Authorities now say Elaine Pierson was afraid of Rochelle Laudenslager and refused to bail her out of jail when Laudenslager was arrested in Nevada in October."
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/01/news/news103.txt

[Serendipitous1]

I know there was a service, but does anyone know anything about a more permanent memorial? In a brief obituary which appeared in The Phoenix on Jan. 10, it was said that contributions could be made to the Elaine Pierson Memorial at Rye Township, Marysville, Pa. 17053. The obituary is not archived at PhoenixvilleNews.com, but it can still be found by googling: > "Elaine Pierson Memorial" < and clicking on the cached version.

[Snoopy220]

Memorials in her honor were requested by the family to be donated to the Methodist Church in Phoenixville where Elaine still held her membership.
From what I read in her obit, she also worked for Rye Township.
Is there a nature trail there? I live near the Norristown Fram Park where people donate money in memory of someone and either have a tree planted with a placard with the person's name, or a park bench. Maybe you friends out there could organize a drive to collect money and have a tree planted or something to demonstrate the goodness of Elaine, and the trajic loss of her life.
So Rochelle had all this planned, and Elaine knew Rochelle was a troubled individual. I would bet that Elaine never planned on the meeting the 27th, but it was all in Rochelle's sick head. Does anyone know how she broke in, as her family has told others there was no "break-in"?
If Betty L saw her daughter crying she should have suspected something was amiss, and did she question her on the use of the gun? I guess she'll have to testify against her daughter, along with her sister. How sad.:flamemad:

[Serendipitous1]

<Snips> From what I read in her obit, she also worked for Rye Township. Is there a nature trail there? I live near the Norristown Fram Park where people donate money in memory of someone and either have a tree planted with a placard with the person's name, or a park bench. Maybe you friends out there could organize a drive to collect money and have a tree planted or something to demonstrate the goodness of Elaine, and the trajic loss of her life.:Her obituary said Elaine had served as a member of the Rye Township Park and Recreation Committee, so maybe there will be something along the lines you suggest. Rye Township Parks and Recreation:
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/site/default.asp

<Snip> Does anyone know how [Rochelle] broke in, as her family has told others there was no "break-in"?Perhaps you are confusing burglary with breaking and entering. The charge in the UJS Docket cites the statute which defines burglary. "A person is guilty of burglary if he enters a building or occupied structure, or separately secured or occupied portion thereof, with intent to commit a crime therein, unless the premises are at the time open to the public or the actor is licensed or privileged to enter."
http://members.aol.com/StatutesPA/18.Cp.35.html

[Snoopy220]

No, I am very well aware of the difference. My question again is...how did Rochelle get in to the house? Elaine's parents have said there was no break in.
There has so far been $2100 raised in Elaine's memory for a walk in Rye Park.
There is a meeting soon to discuss her memorial.

[Serendipitous1]

No, I am very well aware of the difference. My question again is...how did Rochelle get in to the house? Elaine's parents have said there was no break in.
There has so far been $2100 raised in Elaine's memory for a walk in Rye Park.
There is a meeting soon to discuss her memorial.Great news about the memorial, Snoopy. If I had to guess, Elaine might well have let her in. My only reason for saying that though is an early article where it was reported that wine glasses were among the items taken from her home for forensic testing.
http://www.pennlive.com/patriotnews/stories/index.ssf?/base/news/1168053927122380.xml&coll=1

[Serendipitous1]

Elaine Pierson told a friend that she thought Rachel Laudenslager was “out to get her,” according to an affidavit.

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/02/news/news86.txt

[Sunny71]

You all are AMAZING for gathering information about Elaine.

I have to log on everyday just to learn the latest. THANKS for everything that was written up to date!!!

Something partially that I was interested in was the money being raised in Elaine's memory for a walk in Rye Park. Did you find that on a web-site? If you hear more information please pass that on. I woild love to donate and be at the opening ceremony. Along with many of my friends.


A thought on the burglary charges. I am probably wrong . . . but I thought those charges came from Betty L's. house. Where the gun was "stolen" from.

[Hbgchick]

Thanks for the links, S1. It looks like Rochelle will be before the court on Wednesday...I'll be anxious to see how she pleads.

[Serendipitous1]

<Snip>
Something partially that I was interested in was the money being raised in Elaine's memory for a walk in Rye Park. Did you find that on a web-site? If you hear more information please pass that on. I woild love to donate and be at the opening ceremony. Along with many of my friends.From the Rye Township Supervisors' meeting minutes for January 22, 2007: "Secretary/Treasurer Daisy Lightner reported the receipt of over $1,000.00 in donations to the Elaine Pierson Memorial. At Elaine’s memorial service the family requested that monies be sent to Rye Township in memory of Elaine Pierson. The family is also requesting the monies be designated for a special recreation project in Elaine’s memory. A hike/bike trail was suggested as a possible project for consideration.

Under the advice of Greg Hall, CPA of the accounting firm of Smith, Elliott, and Kearns, the checks were deposited in the Township’s General Savings account under a separate line item- account number 01.106.05, the Elaine Pierson Memorial. CPA Hall advised the Township send an acknowledgment for each donation received since donations for public parks are tax deductible. Solicitor Wagner advised the Secretary/Treasurer obtain written documentation from the CPA that the donations received are tax deductible."
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/lib/per-rye/supervisorsmeetingminures/2007-01-22.pdf

[Serendipitous1]

Rye Township Contact Information:
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/cwp/view.asp?a=922&Q=432967&per_ryeNav=|9755|

[WordsMatter]

It just keeps getting more and more interesting....

Rochelle Laudenslager grabbed a kitchen knife and held it in front of her as state police tried to arrest her in the slaying of Elaine Pierson, according to a criminal complaint.

Trooper Steven Strawser suffered a minor cut on a finger while Laudenslager, of the 6200 block of Spring Knoll Drive, Lower Paxton Twp., resisted arrest Feb. 15, the complaint states.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1173152415146210.xml&coll=1

[Serendipitous1]

It just keeps getting more and more interesting....

Rochelle Laudenslager grabbed a kitchen knife and held it in front of her as state police tried to arrest her in the slaying of Elaine Pierson, according to a criminal complaint.

Trooper Steven Strawser suffered a minor cut on a finger while Laudenslager, of the 6200 block of Spring Knoll Drive, Lower Paxton Twp., resisted arrest Feb. 15, the complaint states.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1173152415146210.xml&coll=1The 10 new charges at UJS:
http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PublicReporting/PublicReporting.aspx?rt=1200&data=securitylevel;0,docket;CR-0000035-07,district;41-3-03&ST=3/6/2007%208:21:08%20AM

Sunny71 - According to the Perry County Times, the burglary charge was a result of Laudenslager's entry into Pierson's residence for the purpose of committing a crime. Also in that same article: "Initially she [Laudenslager] was cooperative; she has become less cooperative," said [Perry County DA] Chenot.
http://www.perrycountytimes.com/news/022207a.htm
In light of the new information (thanks for the link, WordsMatter), that would seem to have been quite an understatement!

[Snoopy220]

Greetings:

I have been in contact with Rye Township, and am excited that money has been donated to them in Elaine's memory and tribute. :lol:
Remembering Elaine as a kid on her farm, and her Mother in church, I look forward to having a good money drive to have a wonderful permanent tribute to Elaine.

Hopefully there won't be much snow there to further delay the Preliminary Hearing.

I bet there will be an insanity defense, based on prior behavior. Who wacks their sister in bed with a frying pan, and is committed I believe 2 times in the mental hospital?

Then the knife episode wih the state trooper.

I still cannot imagine the terror for Elaine of that drive with a sick evil woman from her home. I am sure as Elaine was involved with someone else Rochelle couldn't handle it, and reacted to the rejectment, with gun in hand.

I also bet Elaine never planned to meet her, after all, Rochelle was not expected as she heard noises. After all, Elaine told friends she was afraid of her..so why invite he to her secluded home?

Glad Rochelle left evidence on the wine glass.

God bless Elaine.

[Serendipitous1]

<Snips>
I have been in contact with Rye Township, and am excited that money has been donated to them in Elaine's memory and tribute.

Glad Rochelle left evidence on the wine glass.

God bless Elaine.Yes, may God bless Elaine and her loved ones. Do you have any more specific information on the permanent memorial or how to donate?

Also, I do not know of any forensic results regarding the wine glasses (plural) or other items taken from Elaine's home. Hopefully we will learn more after the preliminary hearing. OTOH, all this pre-trial publicity might cause the DJ to limit the information that comes out of the prelim. Bound over to court without bail...that is what I want to hear. Just my opinion.

[Snoopy220]

Serendip..

I went in to the website for Rye Township and e-mailed them. From what the secretary tells me it depends on the monet raised. Apparently to have a hike and bike trail (what I named in my head "The Pierson Path" it is very expensive and the $2100.00 received won't cover that.

As far as us posting here, or what has been in the papers and Internet, I don't think that would hold the information from the public.

Does any one know the time of the hearing?

:cuss:

[Hbgchick]

As of 3:45 Wednesday I haven't heard anything!

[bchand]

As of 3:45 Wednesday I haven't heard anything!

Ditto here. I've been watching pennlive.com for news. I don't think this snow would have cancelled anything do you?

I know most schools were closed today though, so you never know.

(Mechanicsburg here)

[Snoopy220]

I was afraid that it would get cancelled due to snow, but we still don't know. I checked at noon and saw nothing, so I guess we all wait to see what happens after 5 PM.

[Serendipitous1]

I was afraid that it would get cancelled due to snow, but we still don't know. I checked at noon and saw nothing, so I guess we all wait to see what happens after 5 PM.The hearing was scheduled for 1:30, so I guess you are correct...watch the local news at 5 for (hopefully) RL's short trip from and back to the slammer.

[Serendipitous1]

Pierson's friend told District Judge Daniel McGuire that Pierson had plans with suspect RL on the evening of Dec. 27, when authorities believe she was killed. Another friend, AM, testified that RL showed an interest in his gun when he visited Pierson's home after a hunting trip in early December.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/07/news/news956.txt

[Serendipitous1]

McGuire bound over all charges to county court, including criminal homicide, kidnap and burglary with intent to kidnap in connection with Pierson's slaying. He also bound over charges lodged this week involving Laudenslager's arrest on Feb. 15, including five charges of aggravated assault, three charges of simple assault, reckless endangerment and resisting arrest.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/07/news/news956.txt

[bchand]

http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/03/perry_county_slaying_suspect_t.html

After a three-hour hearing this afternoon involving eight witnesses, Rochelle Laudenslager, 45, of Lower Paxton Twp., Dauphin County, was ordered to trial in the death of her ex-lover, Elaine Pierson, 48, of Rye Twp., Perry County

[Serendipitous1]

About 70 people turned out to the Perry County Courthouse this afternoon, including several of Pierson's friends. Laudenslager, 45, of Susquenna [sic] Township, remains in Cumberland County Prison without bail, pending trial in Perry County.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/07/news/news956.txt
My opinion - get used to the bars, RKL. But come "clean"...it's (usually) good for the soul.

[Snoopy220]

Good news that there is so much evidence to prove her guilt.

I just wonder so seriously why Rochelle would want to kill her, unless it was revenge for Elaine not bailing her out of prison.

Obviously Elaine knew she had emotional/psychological issues. Is Rochelle bipolar?:eek:

[Snoopy220]

Now c'mon....Betty took the gun from Rochelle and hid it in the attic insulation? Yeah and Rochelle wanted to kill herself? She should have certainly harmed herself instead of killing Elaine. The prosecutor was correct to call her murder "overkill".
I still think Betty should be charged with something, especially after making up such an "easy" story. And the lawyer..now what is real here? Evidence against RL galore. I guess he has to defend her no matter what it takes.
Hope we don't have to wait too long for the trial.

[Serendipitous1]

Now c'mon....Betty took the gun from Rochelle and hid it in the attic insulation? Yeah and Rochelle wanted to kill herself? She should have certainly harmed herself instead of killing Elaine. The prosecutor was correct to call her murder "overkill".
I still think Betty should be charged with something, especially after making up such an "easy" story. And the lawyer..now what is real here? Evidence against RL galore. I guess he has to defend her no matter what it takes.
Hope we don't have to wait too long for the trial.What trial? My take - Chenot announces his intention to ask for the DP, and RL pleads to deal that down - no trial - life in prison with no parole. RL's mother apparently testified at the prelim, though she (of course) does not believe her daughter committed murder. I figure that was to avoid charges. RL's lawyer? Well enough said about defense attorneys and losing propositions.

[Snoopy220]

I would prefer Rochelle be put to death.

From what I have read I thought it was mentioned Chenot would seek the DP.This was such a calculated planned murder.

I would also imagine in State Prison she'd be prime target= for killing a former lover.

[Serendipitous1]

Watch the ABC27 video. Very interesting. BL testified it was her idea to hide the gun in the attic because she thought her daughter may try to harm herself. BL later admitted that Rochelle helped her hide the gun. DA Chenot says they have no evidence of Rochelle being suicidal, "We reasonably believe that Betty is trying to make up excuses for her daughter. It was obviously very difficult for her to testify against her Wednesday. But she did come in and do what she had to do."
http://www.abc27.com/news/stories/0307/403610.html

[Serendipitous1]

Lordy...that picture of Elaine in the video (see above)...the best yet...what a beautiful woman...such a waste! RIP, Elaine, and JMO

[Serendipitous1]

By the way...where is "Byron Katie" (Byron Kathleen Reid) when you need her?
http://www.thework.com/network/profile_detail.cfm?pid=971&from=profile_search_results.cfm

[Serendipitous1]

By the way...where is "Byron Katie" (Byron Kathleen Reid) when you need her?
http://www.thework.com/network/profile_detail.cfm?pid=971&from=profile_search_results.cfmOh, I forgot...Byron Katie International (BKI) does not endorse individual facilitators who register their profiles on her site, facilitators are not affiliated with BKI in any way, and each individual client and facilitator is fully responsible for all interactions that take place between the two parties. BKI is not responsible for those interactions.
http://www.thework.com/network/index.cfm
How convenient and "legally" not responsible...or is that "irresponsible"? Can anyone say S-T-U-P-I-D C-U-L-T? Just my opinion.

[Hbgchick]

Shoot! I can't watch the video -it just keeps going back to the same thing.

But - what's this crap about RL being "suicidal"? Riiiiiight. I guess it has to be hard for BL to admit that her daughter is a cold blooded murderer though. I can't honestly say what my mom would do in a situation like that - she's the most Christian person in the world and would know what is right, but I'm also her pride & joy (not bragging - just a fact) and I know she'd be hard pressed to do/say something that would surely put me in prison for the rest of my life even if I did something so horrid. I have to feel some empathy for BL.

[Serendipitous1]

...on the arrest: http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/08/news/news942.txt
...and the prelim: http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/03/08/news/news941.txt

[WordsMatter]

Who do you think gave her the greeting card? :confused:

[Serendipitous1]

Who do you think gave her the greeting card? :confused:;) Maybe it was TB, the gal who tried to hold the police off while her "house guest" contemplated yet another desperate act. Just a thought.

[Snoopy220]

I have been thinking about your post regarding the plea deal from DP to life..I would imagine it would be easier for family and friends to not go through the horrors of a trial being in the same room with RL.

I would just want Rochelle to hear the impact her actions have had on those who love Elaine. I think she should be faced to look at Elaine's parents, brothers and sister, nephews, nieces, and friends-and to have to listen to it all, and to see the heartache and the tears.

Anyone have any idea how long it takes to prepare for thgis trial, and what the "normal" wait is for the jury selection?

[Serendipitous1]

I have been thinking about your post regarding the plea deal from DP to life..I would imagine it would be easier for family and friends to not go through the horrors of a trial being in the same room with RL.

I would just want Rochelle to hear the impact her actions have had on those who love Elaine. I think she should be faced to look at Elaine's parents, brothers and sister, nephews, nieces, and friends-and to have to listen to it all, and to see the heartache and the tears.

Anyone have any idea how long it takes to prepare for thgis trial, and what the "normal" wait is for the jury selection?Based upon my experience...a long time, unfortunately. There will likely be pretrial motions and decisions, etc. But rest assured...Rochelle's ***** is grass, and DA Chenot is the lawn mower!

[Gel]

I did not know Elaine Pierson, but it seems like she was a wonderful, sweet person just from reading the posts and newspaper articles. My sympathy goes out to all her friends and family.

I have been trying to figure out why someone would involve their 83 year old mother in such a horrific mess that they created. Thats pretty pathetic. Iv'e heard Betty had just gotten out of the hospital a few weeks before this tragedy took place and she is pretty frail. Why would you show up at your mother's house at 9:15 at night with a gun in a bag? I think its pretty safe to say, Betty knew Rochelle killed Elaine on Dec. 27. She said Rochelle came to her house with the gun in a plastic bag and she was crying. So Rochelle most likely told her what she did that very night. That would mean Betty has been lying, but I doubt they will charge her with anything because of her age and health.

If the last person Elaine talked to was at 8:19 p.m. and Rochelle brought the gun to Betty's at 9:15 or so, there would have been no time what-so-ever to clean the weapon. Any idiot would try to wipe all evidence off of the weapon, but did she do that at her mother's house? If there was blood on the inside of the gun barrell, there was definately blood on the outside too. I think Betty knows way more than she ever wanted to.

[Serendipitous1]

<Snips>
That would mean Betty has been lying, but I doubt they will charge her with anything because of her age and health.

If the last person Elaine talked to was at 8:19 p.m. and Rochelle brought the gun to Betty's at 9:15 or so, there would have been no time what-so-ever to clean the weapon. If there was blood on the inside of the gun barrell, there was definately blood on the outside too. I think Betty knows way more than she ever wanted to.I believe it was reported that there was evidence of blood on the outside of the barrel, but that the testing of it was inconclusive. I have not seen anything mentioned about fingerprints on the gun. So it would appear that the outside of the gun had been wiped down. It seems illogical that BL did not put 2 and 2 together very quickly, perhaps even that night.

I agree that she will not likely be charged with anything, adding to your list that the DA needs her testimony. But, is she still trying to protect her daughter with a "fuzzy" memory regarding the time, and maybe even events (like wiping the gun down)? It does not seem possible for RL to have done the deed, gotten rid of the body and driven to Gratz, all in about 1 hour. Just my opinion.

[Gel]

I'm really confused about the relationship between Rochelle and Elaine. From what I understand, they used to live together but their relationship ended four years ago. I understand Rochelle wanted to start something up again. Elaine had a significant other - was Rochelle not seeing anyone right now? Who was the person on Progress Avenue where she was when they arrested her? Just a friend? Just relating to my own experiences, if my old boyfriend started to come around and wanted me to spend time with him, my current one would be freakin out. I wonder if her current partner, identified as Gail Hiestand, was thinking "go away loser". I think that poor girl could have been the one Rochelle got rid of. A lot of the time, it seems to go that way.

Back to the point, that was a long time ago that this romantic relationship took place (4 years). To so brutally murder someone, you would have to be filled with rage. What the heck could she have been so viciously pissed about four years after the fact.

Lastly, does anyone know what the trip plans were that the police confiscated way back in January when they searched Rochelle's home. Was Elaine going to go on the trip with Rochelle?

For some reason, I cannot seem to wrap my head around this whole thing. I feel like I just need to know the whole story for any of this to make sense.
Thanks for any answers anyone has.

[WordsMatter]

Who was the person on Progress Avenue where she was when they arrested her? Just a friend?

From what I heard it was someone that she worked with -- Just a friend.

[Dorkette]

I can imagine what her family is going through and let me tell you it is pure hell. As far as trial vs plea, I would lean towards a plea. The killer might not get life but sometimes it doesn't matter to the family how long the sentence is - it will never change anything and certainly can't bring their daughter/friend back.

After my daughter's plea hearing which only took 1 hour 45 minutes as compared to 2 weeks - I am grateful for the plea. The defense would have tried to take Taylor's name through the mud and for a mother to sit there and listen to the lies and exaggerations and then there is the evidence, the details and photos of how she died could be more than family or friends could bear. During the plea hearing, I learned alot since there was a gag order but never the why or how. All I can do is imagine what she went through before she was murdered and left in a ravine for a month before she was found.

If there is anything I can do for the family, listen, talk, whatever, please send me a message.

God bless Elaine's family and give them strength and courage,
Janet, mother of slain daughter, Taylor Behl

[packy]

Trying to catch up on this case, and wondering if anyone is questioning the timeline. Seems like there wouldn't be enough time to do it all alone. I'm thinking if there is evidence on the wine glasses then did they also have some time together in the house before the abduction? Sorry if I'm not clear but I didn't get some of the links.

Betty may have really thought her daughter was suicidal and maybe did not realize the full extent of what went down at first. Thinking of how she may have been thinking of her other child who committed suicide.

[bchand]

I can imagine what her family is going through and let me tell you it is pure hell. As far as trial vs plea, I would lean towards a plea. The killer might not get life but sometimes it doesn't matter to the family how long the sentence is - it will never change anything and certainly can't bring their daughter/friend back.

After my daughter's plea hearing which only took 1 hour 45 minutes as compared to 2 weeks - I am grateful for the plea. The defense would have tried to take Taylor's name through the mud and for a mother to sit there and listen to the lies and exaggerations and then there is the evidence, the details and photos of how she died could be more than family or friends could bear. During the plea hearing, I learned alot since there was a gag order but never the why or how. All I can do is imagine what she went through before she was murdered and left in a ravine for a month before she was found.

If there is anything I can do for the family, listen, talk, whatever, please send me a message.

God bless Elaine's family and give them strength and courage,
Janet, mother of slain daughter, Taylor Behl


Janet - thank you very much for your viewpoint on plea deals. I understand how it would be much easier on the family with your explanation. My condolences to you on the loss of your beautiful daughter. I have seen you on the news and admired your strength.

Did you have to agree to the plea deal before it was offered? We have an unsolved murder in my husband's family. It's been 36 years since my husband's younger brother was murdered (he was a police officer killed in the line of duty) and I'm sure we would rather have seen the killer in prison for 30 some years rather than free on the streets, living his life all these years.

Again, thank you for posting and offering your help to this family.

[Dorkette]

Sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. My father was a policeman and they are brave men to put their lives on the line everyday.

We were told about the plea and given a chance to voice our opinion. However, it wouldn't have mattered if we disagreed because the prosecuters have the final say. Matt agreed immediately and I agreed after several hours of refusing due to the dropping of the porn charges.

[bLackrose_ann23]

Ma'am Janet is absolutely correct! It really doesn't matter whether the criminal will get a life sentence or a death penalty. But in my opinion, they should be lock up in a cell and fill that cell with photos and memories of their victims so that the criminal can see them everyhour, everyday.

[Serendipitous1]

The online criminal dockets for the two Perry County Court of Common Pleas cases against RL are now available at ujsportal. The dockets are periodically updated with new entries as the process continues. Formal arraignment is scheduled for 4/5/07 at 9 am.

You can view the dockets by entering the last name (Laudenslager) and the county (Perry) here:
http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/WebDocketSheets/OtherCriteria.aspx?mode=cp

[Serendipitous1]

Perry County DA says the death penalty is warranted because of "aggravated circumstances" -- the homicide took place during the commission of felonies, including kidnapping.

http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/04/prosecuters_call_for_death_pen.html

[Serendipitous1]

The online docket at ujsportal has been updated with the DA's filing of his intention to seek the death penalty.

In another article: The aggravated circumstances were felony kidnapping and torture. Laudenslager pleaded not guilty to all charges.

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/05/breaking_news/breaking3.txt

[Snoopy220]

RL will be well taken care of by our PA tax dollars. Too bad it takes so long for things to transpire in handing down sentences and then to have an inmate put to death. Hope all of her last pennies are spent for her "defense". How the hell could she plead not guilty. How ridiculous. :no:

[Serendipitous1]

Not much in the way of new information in today's newspaper. The DA's theory is that Pierson was not killed instantaneously.
http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/117582720666340.xml&coll=1

Another article from yesterday - some interesting quotes from Byron Kathleen Mitchell and other details about "The Work", a self-help process which Laudenslager bought into last year; and some more details about the Nevada frying pan incident.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/06/news/news593.txt

Now that the DP is on the table, I think RL will look for a deal (unless her lawyer has one heck of a solid defense strategy). The DA is being pretty tight-lipped about the aggravated circumstance of torture. Just speculating that maybe the first 3 shots were intended to inflict pain. Or maybe the placement of one shot, the location of which (on the body) has not been disclosed, appeared to have been particularly cruel. Just my opinion.

[Hbgchick]

Thanks S1, I appreciate the update!

[Serendipitous1]

Steps have been taken by Remya (Mary Ann) Meixner ‘81, to create an endowed scholarship fund in Elaine’s memory at Lock Haven University. The “Elaine Pierson Memorial Scholarship Fund” will benefit women athletes at the university. Fund activities will be launched on April 20 with a casual evening of remembrance (invitation only?) at a Harrisburg-area restaurant.

http://www.lhup.edu/foundation/EPfundFRIENDSletter.pdf

An online memorial of sorts was set up for Elaine at “Find A Grave” (a ‘virtual cemetery’ website where loved ones can ‘visit’ graves and leave flowers/notes), by fellow Rye Township resident, Rose Wilson-Fake. Leaving flowers/notes is restricted to registered members, although it appears that others might do so by emailing Rose.

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GScid=2133418&GRid=17389218&

[Serendipitous1]

Anatomy of a death penalty case (as applied to RL):
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/15/news/news472.txt

[Hbgchick]

Thanks again S1. I do appreciate the updates - somehow I can't seem to find them as quickly as you can! :shrug:

[Serendipitous1]

No problem, 'chick'. Sentinel Reporter Tatiana Zarnowski has been doing a terrific job in digging up facts and news in this case, in my opinion. Some other articles:

Cell phone record points to Pierson murder suspect:
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/13/news/news479.txt

Lawyer calls trial publicity damaging:
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/06/news/news578.txt

My opinion: bring RL to my county ... or send me to Perry. I may not exactly be an impartial juror, but I got a lot of common sense!

[Hbgchick]

Thanks again! :beer: (< That's a micro brew, as opposed to plain ol' Bud, if you recall. ;) )

I wonder what it was that caused LE to originally think that AM may have provided RL with the weapon?

[Serendipitous1]

Thanks again! :beer: (< That's a micro brew, as opposed to plain ol' Bud, if you recall. ;) )

I wonder what it was that caused LE to originally think that AM may have provided RL with the weapon?You lost me with the micro brew. My pick this year is Lionshead Pilsner, brewed in Wilkes-Barre, PA. :beer:

If I recall correctly, AM owned a 22-caliber gun which was confiscated by police due to a PFA order...something to do with his out-of-state ex.

[Serendipitous1]

More on this evening’s event to create Pierson scholarship fund:
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/20/news/news411.txt

"People who want to donate are invited to Burgundy’s restaurant north of Duncannon on Routes 11/15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for a tribute to Pierson. Light refreshments will be served and there is no admission charge to the kickoff event."

[Serendipitous1]

Remya Meixner aims high - to build a $1 million endowment so that every year three female athletes can get free tuition, room and board to Lock Haven University.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/04/21/news/news386.txt

[Snoopy220]

Remya is a gift from God.

Where is $ sent?

I have a memory of Elaine on her farm during a church picnic when we were kids. I recall her mother telling us to be careful when jumping from the hay piles in the barn.
When I saw Elaine's picture when she was missing in e-mail she resembles
her mother so much.

I went to Lock Haven in 77, so I'd like to contribute in her memory for the fun time she showed me on her farm.

Thanks for sharing the info.:beer:

[Serendipitous1]

<Snips> Remya is a gift from God. Where is $ sent? I went to Lock Haven in 77, so I'd like to contribute in her memory for the fun time she showed me on her farm.These appear to be the ways to give, but you should designate the "Elaine Pierson Memorial Scholarship", and you may want to call ahead to be sure if using the mail:

http://www.lhup.edu/foundation/

Donations (payable to the "Lock Haven University Foundation") may be mailed to the LHU Foundation, 126 Akeley Hall, Lock Haven University, Lock Haven, PA 17745. Telephone: (570) 484-2293; Facsimile: (570) 484-2774

Credit card donations are accepted (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express) - please call (570) 484-2356.

Secure online giving is available:
http://www.lhup.edu/development/online_giving_form.htm

[zwench]

Thanks to all who posted links and to Remya for setting up the fund.

This is such a sad story which didn't have to happen. It makes me physically ill when I think about how RL could have done this to another human being as sweet as Elaine was. I just hope that RL does not get off lightly or on a technicality.

[Snoopy220]

Zwench,

Thanks to S1 who has provided us with all the links to the hearing and documentation, I would imagine she will get the death penalty.
I say this because the DA has stated Elaine was tortured, and will not disclose where one of the bullets entered her body. I just pray she did not suffer long.
The police know this was a long premeditated murder, taking weeks to plan. So she must have known she would be rejected by Elaine and angry I am sure, by Elaine refusing to bail her out after she wacked her sisiter in Nevada in the past.
The world lost a gem with Elaine's passing, and has to now convict and lock up a sick woman. So now my tax dollars will feed and house her. How many of you will be attending the trial? Has anyone heard where the trial will take place as RL's attorney wants it out of the area? Any chance it will make Court TV?

~Snoopy220

[Hbgchick]

You lost me with the micro brew. My pick this year is Lionshead Pilsner, brewed in Wilkes-Barre, PA. :beer:

If I recall correctly, AM owned a 22-caliber gun which was confiscated by police due to a PFA order...something to do with his out-of-state ex.

Sorry - the micro brew was an old RG reference...to the time when we were discussing the sighting in Wilkes-Barre. Someone said there was "no way" it could have been him because he only drank Guinness and the guy that was seen was drinking something else. (Sorry for the off-topic reference).

Back to Elaine though - do we know when a trial is going to take place?

[Serendipitous1]

<Snip> ...do we know when a trial is going to take place?The online docket at ujsportal lists a "Criminal Miscellaneous Hearing" (whatever that is for) scheduled for July 12, fourteen weeks after formal arraignment. That does not appear to be a trial date, else I would think it would say something about jury selection. There will surely be several defense motions and other activity before a trial.

Elaine's tragedy (among others) was briefly mentioned as legislators introduced a bill which targets domestic violence. The bill calls for key people to examine the details after a death from domestic violence and try to find gaps or flaws in systems that played a role in the death.
http://www.pennlive.com/patriotnews/stories/index.ssf?/base/news/1177465203324320.xml&coll=1

[Serendipitous1]

This appears to be the proposed legislation, "providing for the disclosure of certain criminal history record information and certain information related to abuse to the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board and to any domestic violence fatality review team; establishing the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Program, the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board and domestic violence fatality review teams and providing for their powers and duties; and fixing penalties for certain violations related to the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Program."

The bill text and history can be viewed at:
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?&syear=2007&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0595

[Serendipitous1]

From Swans Island, Maine (apparently a longtime favorite, summer retreat) and the Bar Harbor Times:

Summer resident found murdered:
http://www.mainecoastnow.com/articles/2007/01/16/bar_harbor_times/local_news/doc45a4de94e5fbc235840009.txt

Our deepest sympathy...
http://www.mainecoastnow.com/articles/2007/01/19/bar_harbor_times/town_correspondents/swans_island/doc45ae0504d552c328034164.txt

Suspect arrested for summer resident’s murder
http://www.mainecoastnow.com/articles/2007/02/24/bar_harbor_times/local_news/doc45deee791b2b2880064432.txt

[dallasvic]

This is such a senseless crime ! Why do people do these bad things to each other. I do not understand.What is causing so much violence?

[Serendipitous1]

DA Chenot and Sgt. Ringer of the PSP (Newport Barracks) were present at the 3/26 Rye Township Supervisors meeting, on behalf of the Perry County Crime Stoppers ( www.perrycountycrimestoppers.org ), which provides rewards up to $2,000 for information leading to arrests. Informants are able to provide tips on crimes anonymously. The toll free number to call is 1-866-210-8477.

Sgt. Ringer of Newport Barracks urged residents not to underestimate the part they play in providing details. The 866 hot line provides an opportunity for residents to remain anonymous. He mentioned the recent Elaine Pierson homicide, in which several calls were received. He thanked the board for their cooperation and the use of the municipal building to stage the search and appreciated residents who volunteered to look for Pierson.

The Secretary/Treasurer noted that $ 650.00 was contributed to the Elaine Pierson Memorial in February bringing the total received to $2,755.00.

http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/lib/per-rye/supervisorsmeetingminures/2007-03-26.pdf

[Serendipitous1]

My opinion: the defense had 30 days from arraignment to file the motion, which now has been filed. At ujsportal 5/1/07: RL (through Attorney George H. Matangos) filed for an extension of time within which to file an Omnibus Pretrial Motion. The Judge, C. Joseph Rehkamp, will probably grant the motion.

Rule 578. Omnibus Pretrial Motion for Relief. Unless otherwise required in the interests of justice, all pretrial requests for relief shall be included in one omnibus motion. Types of relief appropriate for the omnibus pretrial motions include the following requests:
(1) for continuance;
(2) for severance and joinder or consolidation;
(3) for suppression of evidence;
(4) for psychiatric examination;
(5) to quash an information;
(6) for change of venue or venire;
(7) to disqualify a judge;
(8) for appointment of investigator; and
(9) for pretrial conference.

The omnibus pretrial motion rule is not intended to limit other types of motions, oral or written, made pretrial or during trial, including those traditionally called motions in limine, which may affect the admissibility of evidence or the resolution of other matters. The earliest feasible submissions and rulings on such motions are encouraged.

http://www.pacode.com/secure/data/234/chapter5/s578.html

[Gel]

I don't know if you guys have been following the recent case of the three people from the New Cumberland area. The one guy, Dustin Weigel, finds out his wife is having an affair with a man named B.J. Burnham. He finds out where Burnham lives and goes there and finds them in bed together. Wife goes in the bathroom and hears what she says sounds like hitting sounds. Weigel brutally beat the guy with a baseball bat and killed him. Paper said he was hit with such force that it separated his sinus cavity from his skull. Wife leads police to baseball bat thrown in a creek. Cousin of Weigel testifies she gave him directions to Burnham's house. They admitted he was there. This is like a "no brainer". What does the jury do......acquitts him. Who on earth do they think did it - the mail man?

The point of this story......Dustin Weigel's attorney is none other than George Matangos. If Matangos can get this guy acquitted of first, second and third degree murder, it makes me nervous for Laudenslager's trial. All those years of being the queen of Highmark and making mega bucks have allowed her to buy one of the best lawyers in the area. :mad:

[Serendipitous1]

<Snip>
......Dustin Weigel's attorney is none other than George Matangos. If Matangos can get this guy acquitted of first, second and third degree murder, it makes me nervous for Laudenslager's trial. All those years of being the queen of Highmark and making mega bucks have allowed her to buy one of the best lawyers in the area. :mad:According to The Patriot News, a member of the jury said that only "two or three" jurors ever believed he was guilty; that prosecutors "didn't effectively place [Weigel] in [Burnham's] house." "None of us would have had any trouble convicting him, if they had proven it to us." "If you have someone else's life in your hands, you want to make sure you are certain." Still, "it bothers us, if it may be we let him get away, or maybe something else happened in that house." "We don't know."

Burnham's relatives have been advised of their right to file a wrongful death lawsuit but have not decided if they will. The family is trying to move on with their lives and make the lives of Burnham's sons as normal as possible.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1178938511134420.xml&coll=1

My opinion: Reminds me of the OJ trial - the best defense money can buy...up against public servants. We will just have to see how RL's case plays out. George H. Mantangos formerly worked in the Dauphin County DA's office. His profile:

http://www.costopoulos.com/attorneys/george-matangos.php

[Snoopy220]

Hope all of you are staying cool.....

I do not recall when the trial begins for the accused...is it still going to be there or is the lawyer trying another location? Any more stories or updates??

Thanks.

Snoopy

[bchand]

Hope all of you are staying cool.....

I do not recall when the trial begins for the accused...is it still going to be there or is the lawyer trying another location? Any more stories or updates??

Thanks.

Snoopy


Snoopy - She is due back in court today. The prosecutor wants the death penalty but her lawyer will fight that. I'll watch for more info today on our local tv, websites, etc.

[bchand]

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/07/12/news/news114.txt

Laudenslager case continued

Rochelle Laudenslager's latest appearance in court was brief.

On Thursday the 45-year-old Lower Paxton Township resident, who has been charged with the December death of a Perry County woman, was before Perry County Judge Joseph Rehkamp for little more than a minute while her attorney, George Matangos, sought to have the status conference continued until next month

Rehkamp granted the request, setting the conference for Aug. 16 at 9 a.m.

Afterward, Matangos said one of the reasons he requested the continuance was to allow time to have a complete mental health assessment on Laudenslager

He noted that the assessment may not be completed by Aug. 16 and that he may seek another continuance then.


Looks like Matangos is going to drag this out as long as he can.

[Snoopy220]

What a waste of the court's time. Why wasn't this done way back in the Winter after she was arrested? I guess from what I have read maybe it would be better Elaine's parents aren't exposed to a trial. She has to have mental problems to do what she did to someone she loved and wanted back.

[Serendipitous1]

A finding of mental health issues could result in the first-degree murder charge being reduced to second- or third-degree murder. As to whether Laudenslager will be entering a plea, Matangos said, “There are ongoing discussions.” Matangos also confirmed that he will be seeking to have the trial moved out of the county and jurors similarly selected from out of county.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/07/13/news/news103.txt

Chenot said the case is tentatively scheduled for trial in September, but thought October or December was more realistic.
http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1184297124249460.xml&coll=1

[Hbgchick]

Aaahhhh...thanks S1.

[Serendipitous1]

Anyone know what happened to the case against Laudenslager? I cannot find any new information. Even the online stuff at ujsportal appears to be gone?

[Sunny71]

Serendipitous1,

We are in trouble if you can't find information about the trial.
I log on, all the time just to read your input for the lastest news.
I have some friends in Harrisburg, if I hear anything I will respond back.
keep searching! Thank you Sunny71

[WordsMatter]

According to the UJSPORTAL website she is due in Judge Joseph Rehkamp's courtroom on November 1st at 9:00 AM. I heard a rumor that they are looking at filing an insanity plea. But again, who knows.....:shrug:

[Hbgchick]

Hey - has anyone heard any new news on this?

[bchand]

Hey - has anyone heard any new news on this?

I just heard on the local news that the trial date has been set for March 24th in Perry County.

[Hbgchick]

Interesting. Thanks!

[Serendipitous1]

Yes...thanks bchand. I was beginning to think this case just disappeared. It seems Mantangos got the online, public access stuff over at ujsportal to disappear as well.

I googled a little and found a September article in, I believe, the Patriot News. The gist was that the Perry County judge ordered all court motions sealed until a trial begins or a guilty plea is entered...something about shielding whether RL is a nut case...go figure! JMOO

[Serendipitous1]

From a month ago:
Pierson murder hearing continued - Rochelle Laudenslager awaits a new hearing in the case
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/11/03/news/news620.txt

[Hbgchick]

S1 comes through again! Thanks! :D

[Serendipitous1]

Perry County Judge Kathy A. Morrow will request that the PA Supreme Court select an outside jury for RL’s trial in March. The jurors will be brought to Perry County and sequestered throughout the trial.

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2007/12/05/news/news185.txt

[bchand]

From The Patriot-News - January 4, 2008

Berks jury to hear death case

The jury that will hear the case of a woman accused of killing her former lover will come from Berks County, the state Supreme court has decided.

Jurors will be chosen in Berks County on March 24 and 25, then sequestered at an area hotel.

[Serendipitous1]

Pierson's friends remember: Live, laugh, love

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2008/01/06/news/news594.txt

[Serendipitous1]

From ujsportal web dockets:

On 10/18/07 the Perry DA filed a "Notice to Appear for Sentence of Imprisonment". [I wonder if a plea bargain was in the works, but fell through?] On 11/07 the judge granted a "Motion for Continuance". Then on 11/29 the judge made a series of orders, including tentatively scheduling trial, and one in regard to "medical records". The case was transferred to Berks County [for jury selection, I gather], and the court there granted a motion to seal it (order filed in Perry County, 12/18/07).

[Hbgchick]

Very interesting! I will be watching the events unfold very closely.

I also find it interesting that people who knew Rochelle as Elaine's lover (in the article you posted) are having trouble reconciling the person they "knew" with a cold blooded killer. Do you think there any possibility that she didn't do this?

[Serendipitous1]

Very interesting! I will be watching the events unfold very closely.

I also find it interesting that people who knew Rochelle as Elaine's lover (in the article you posted) are having trouble reconciling the person they "knew" with a cold blooded killer. Do you think there any possibility that she didn't do this?Not on the face of the evidence police have disclosed so far. Perhaps it is just a "Jekyll and Hyde" thing - some acquaintances may only know the Dr. Jekyll side.

[Serendipitous1]

Not that I am complaining, but the reason stated for going out of the county for a jury was because of the media coverage of the murder. DA Chenot said, "I guess the court thought that was far enough out of the area."
http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1199413521122130.xml&coll=1

Berks seems too close to have escaped the extensive southeastern Pa media coverage, and is next door to Pierson's hometown county IIRC. I would have guessed some western or northern Pa county might have been selected. JMOO

[Serendipitous1]

Rochelle Laudenslager is expected to plead guilty.

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/02/plea.html

[Serendipitous1]

Rochelle Laudenslager is expected to plead guilty. A hearing is scheduled for Wed. morning, Feb. 6.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1201913708288670.xml&coll=1

[Serendipitous1]

"Sources" told ABC 27 News that Laudenslager will plead guilty next week to a lesser degree murder charge.

http://www.whtm.com/news/stories/0208/492925.html?020208

[Sunny71]

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/02/laudenslager_to_serve_2040_yea.html

From Penn.live.com Front page.
She will be able to get out some day?? OMG!

[Serendipitous1]

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/02/laudenslager_to_serve_2040_yea.html

From Penn.live.com Front page.
She will be able to get out some day?? OMG!One can hope that, each time she gets hauled into a parole hearing down the line, the Perry County DA is there with "the file" (crime scene photos and all), to assure that this person remains locked away for life. MOO

[Serendipitous1]

Another article - Laudenslager takes plea deal, gets minimum 30 years in prison (plus timeline recap of the case):

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2008/02/06/news/news177.txt

[Hbgchick]

Wow. Rather anticlimactic, but effective.

How old is she, 46? At the very least she wouldn't be out till she's 76. I would have rather seen life, but this will do.

[Serendipitous1]

Weaknesses in the case lead to plea deal for Laudenslager - lack of motive, and RL's mental health. Laudenslager will be sentenced March 4 at 1:30 p.m.

http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2008/02/07/news/news162.txt

[Hbgchick]

Hang on, I thought she WAS sentenced to 30 years? No? Is there any possiblity in your opinion that her mental state will play a part and get her a reduced sentence?

[Serendipitous1]

Hang on, I thought she WAS sentenced to 30 years? No? Is there any possiblity in your opinion that her mental state will play a part and get her a reduced sentence?I kinda thought the sentence was a done deal too. But I do not know if that can be part of a plea bargain...seems to take the judge out of the picture. Wait and see, I guess. MOO

[Serendipitous1]

Laudenslager Sentenced to Prison
http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=3cc1d9a0-a954-48a9-a5d2-db1bc1cd0422

Ex-lover, sentenced to 30 years, has no explanation for killing
http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/03/new_bloomfield_the_woman.html

'Something happened that I cannot explain'
http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/120467851146950.xml&coll=1

Laudenslager: I’m grieving, too
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2008/03/06/perry_news/news635.txt

[Hbgchick]

Well well. Doesn't remember.

I didn't realize Elaine had a partner. I feel terrible for her, and how terrible that RL knew where Elaine was and still let them search. Uuuuugggggg.

At least she's put away and will hopefully get whatever help she needs. Doesn't bring Elaine back though.

[Serendipitous1]

RKL's permanent (one would hope) new home: SCI Muncy.
http://www.cor.state.pa.us/inmatelocatorweb/

SCI Muncy is a close-security prison that also houses all of the state’s female capital case inmates.
http://www.cor.state.pa.us/muncy/site/default.asp

[Serendipitous1]

The Rye Township Secretary/Treasurer noted that $650.00 was contributed to the Elaine Pierson memorial in March '07, and the total was then (4/23/07) $2,750.
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/lib/per-rye/supervisorsmeetingminures/2007-04-23.pdf

It may not be much...but I hope the township is able to do something worthwhile with this money...this year.

[Serendipitous1]

Restitution is 'uphill battle' for Pierson's girlfriend in Laudenslager case. Look for more in the print and online edition of The Sentinel on Friday.
http://www.cumberlink.com/articles/2008/03/21/news/news514.txt

[Serendipitous1]

The Elaine Pierson Foundation - EP Live~Laugh~Love website:
http://eplivelaughlove.org/

Thanks to Gail Hiestand, Tracy Ingram, Remya Meixner, Ginny Roth, et al.

[Serendipitous1]

The Rye Township Secretary/Treasurer noted that $650.00 was contributed to the Elaine Pierson memorial in March '07, and the total was then (4/23/07) $2,750.
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/lib/per-rye/supervisorsmeetingminures/2007-04-23.pdf

It may not be much...but I hope the township is able to do something worthwhile with this money...this year.In February, the Rye Township Supervisors approved putting the Elaine Pierson Memorial Fund monies into a short term CD.
http://www.ryetwp.com/per-rye/lib/per-rye/supervisorsmeetingminures/2008-02-25.pdf

Looks like there are no ideas yet on how the money should be spent. Suggestions can be made by e-mail to ryetwp@ptd.net

[Serendipitous1]

Dangerous cults (MOO):
murder, Rochelle Laudenslager, facilitator, The Work, Byron Katie
http://forum.rickross.com/read.php?12,12906,53867,quote=1#REPLY
http://forum.rickross.com/read.php?12,12906,53858

[Serendipitous1]

What I had found, 2/23/07:
http://boards.crimelibrary.com/showthread.php?p=8820045&highlight=Katie#post8820045

Now the link goes to: File not found /network/profile_detail.cfm...Error Occurred While Processing Request...The web site you are accessing has experienced an unexpected error. Please contact the website administrator.

MOO - go figure...dangerous cults!!

[Serendipitous1]

Live, Laugh, Love...and Golf. The Elaine Pierson Memorial Tournament...September 19.

http://www.eplivelaughlove.org/EP_Memorial_Brochure.pdf