State Supreme Court Turns Down Jerry Sandusky Appeal

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court slaps down an appeal from convicted child sex abuser Jerry Sandusky.

In a one sentence decision released Wednesday, the court says, “AND NOW, this 2nd day of April, 2014, the Petition for Allowance of Appeal is DENIED.”

Sandusky’s attorney took the case to the supreme court last October after an earlier appeal to the superior court was also denied.

Norris Gelman, Sandusky’s appeal attorney, had asked for a new trial, arguing that it took Sandusky’s accusers too long to come forward.

At the Superior Court appeals hearing, Gelman said that many of Sandusky’s victims waited 16 years to say they were abused. Gelman also claimed the defense wasn’t given enough time to prepare its case.

In addition, Gelman argued that the closing arguments the prosecutor made at Sandusky’s criminal trial could have inappropriately influenced the jury. McGettigan mentioned that Sandusky didn’t take the stand. However, criminal defendant’s are not required to testify at trial.

Gelman did not immediately respond to a request for comment on today’s court decision.

In November, Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane petitioned the supreme court, saying it should not even consider Sandusky’s appeal. In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon, Kane says, “We are very pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision. Protecting Pennsylvania’s children is one of my top priorities and I remain committed to seeking justice for all victims of sexual abuse.”