My "LAYMAN'S" Interpretation of today's events

Again. Keyword: Layman.

This is just what I typed out from my notes this morning. I haven't really proofed it yet but wanted to get this out as I have had emails and calls asking how things went. Here is my unproofed, typed from scribbled notes, layman's interpretation of the pre-trial hearing this morning:

First thing I want to comment on is that Matt brought the girls to this hearing. Paraded them in front of news cameras. They were in the courtroom for a while and then they sat outside during the actual hearing. The "run to hug after Dad exited the courtroom" caught on video for sure. Most parents that truly love their children and want to protect them, shield them from being a public spectacle. Not Matt. He parades them like trophies soley for sympathy and pity. Is this him trying to show the world he's a great father? Little late for that. The people of McLennan County (and potential jurors) see right through that charade. Shameful.

Motion to Request Reveal Agreement GRANTED
Defendant wants to know what the agreement between the State and Vannessa entails. Crawford said he will make that known some time prior to trial. Didn't say when. Judge granted to this extent that Crawford said. It's left rather open and in the State's discretion and timing.

Motion to Quash Substance of Indictment DENIED
Danford went on about the "means unknown" part in the Indictment. Crawford pointed out that the State is allowed to plead "means unknown" or "alternative means" or "by any means known" or "by any means unknown." Pointed out that McDuff was tried, convicted and executed under such Indictment and trial wording.

Motion to Reveal Witness List GRANTED
It's been public record for a while now anyway. Gray pointed out that the State can call witnesses that are not on the subpoena list and he wants full list. Crawford says the subpoena list is the full list, including experts, to date. If they get more in the future, he will make known to the Defense.

Motion for Voir Dire of Experts GRANTED
Shafer said that the expert list was made known a month ago. Gray says the State claims to have an open file stance but that it seems to be more like 90% open. Crawford agreed. Judge was fine with that, it seemed.

Motion for Recovery of Expenses GRANTED
Gray and Danford said they need more money for their investigator to look into all those witnesses. Gray pointed out that they have nto asked the Court for money for experts, that they have none they intend to call. They just want more investigative money. Judge agreed to $1,500. Fine by me.

Motion for Discovery of Experts AGREED UPON
Defense claims they have no experts but if they come up with one/some, Gray says he'll make that known. Shafer pointed out that experts are supposed to be made public 20 days prior to trial. Gray says they just don't have any right now. But if/when he does, he'll let them know. State says most likely they'll actually call 2-3 of their experts.

Motion for Gray to withdraw as counsel DENIED
I'm confused on this one. I *thought* he said (through mumbling) that is was a scheduling conflict. He wasn't sure he'd be able to finish the trial if he started it. Something about it being in his (Gray's) best interest to withdraw but if Court says for him to stay on, he'll do so. But Channel 25 reports something altogether different. They may have talked more about it with him or the Judge or heard him better than I did. They say, "One of Baker's attorney's, Guy James Gray, asked to be removed from the case because of 'serious and material breach of conduct' - this was denied this morning." Will find out more. KWTX's words included the phrase "serious and material breach of confidence." Judge asked Matt Baker if he wanted Gray to stay on, he said yes. So Gray is still on for now.

Gray said he wanted to renew Ellison's request for the Grand Jury testimony of Vanessa Bulls to be made known to them. He said they had a "particularized need" to have that. Crawford so eloquently pointed out that the Texas Rules have done away with the "particularized need" aspect. Gray admitted with an awkward chuckle that sometimes the Texas Rules get away from him in changing so fast. Crawford pointed out that the Texas Rules allows Defendants to see production of witnesses in criminal cases AFTER the witness has testified. I am supposing that means after he/she testifies at the actual trial. Gray told the Judge it was up to the Court's discretion for him to allow them to see it before trial to aid the efficiency of the trial....not cause delays. He said it was a matter of "pure d fairness.'" Judge, "DENIED." He said he'd keep an open mind. Trial is 2 weeks away. I think he'd give it to them by now if he had any intentions to. Some of the best news of the day.

Another VERY interesting thing brought up by Gray was that the DNA evidence taken on the suicide note and bottle of pills DID NOT exclude Vanessa Bull's having touched it. Oh, really?! They tried to complain that Vanessa changed her story from the first police report where she didn't imply guilt on her or Matt's part at all. Then another interview later where she still denied it. And then on the Grand Jury she changed her statement. Well, duh. Fear and testimonial immunity can open up a person's ability to tell the truth!

Gray wanted to renew Ellison's request that no extraneous extra offenses be brought up. Judge said that is routine and he'll be sure and make that known.

Some minor changes in trial dates. They will do jury voir dire and motions in limine Monday afternoon, the 11th. Trial to start the morning of the 12th.

There are approximately 70 people on the potential jury panel. Judge gave following instructions to Defense attorneys (since they had not been in trial in Judge Strother's court before) regarding voir dire of potential jurors. NO comparison on standards of proof on civil vs criminal cases. NO setting up of artificial premises and causing controversy over it for either side.

Crawford reminded Judge to enforce and remind Defense that the gag order was still in effect for involved parties. The Judge thanked him for the reminder. Judge said Danford was quoted saying something about the nature of the State's case in the newspaper and NOT to do that. Danford apologized.

Very good day in court

I will get my notes together and post my experiences in a bit. So far, KXXV.com is the only news report out on it. So I'll post that to get things started.

DEVELOPING: Matt Baker's pre-trial underway
KXXV.com
by Zlatko Filipovic

"WACO - The former preacher accused of murdering his wife and trying to make
it look like suicide is having his first day in court Wednesday morning. Matt Baker showed up for a pre-trial hearing and his full trial is set to begin on January 12th. News Channel 25 is in the court and this is what happened so far:" (read more)

Their website says they will have more information on the Texas Report at 11:00 am, Channel 25, KXXV.


Story has now popped up on KWTX.com

Murder Trial Of Former Waco-Area Pastor Matt Baker Could Take 2 Weeks
KWTX.com
Eli Ross

"WACO (December 30, 2009)—The trial of former Waco-area pastor Matt Baker, who was indicted murder in the death of his wife, could take two weeks, 19th District Judge Ralph Strother said Wednesday during the final hearing before the start of the trial on Jan. 11."

AND

"Strother denied a defense request Wednesday for a transcript of the grand jury testimony of Baker’s former girlfriend Vanessa Bulls, but granted a defense motion seeking additional funds for an investigator." (read more)

Yesterday's courthouse visit....

VERY interesting day at the courthouse yesterday. Not your typical pop-in-and-check-on-records trip in the district clerk's office.

There are some VERY interesting people and businesses on the 100+ witness subpoena applications. But I won't get into those here at this time. If you're wondering if you're on the list, you can email me.

Matt has a new attorney (again) assisting Gray in this matter. His name is Harold J. Danford, a big-wig DWI attorney. Go figure. He is the one that drafted the various motions that the Court will take into consideration at the pre-trial hearing tomorrow. Here are some that I copied down along with my layman's interpretation. Keyword "layman."

Motion to Request State to Reveal Agreement
They are dying to know what Matt's *alleged* girlfriend, Vanessa Bulls, told the Grand Jury that secured the immediate indictment for first degree felony murder. The Judge has denied this motion for months. Don't know what his plan is but he's a wise man and we'll see what he does tomorrow. The defense also wants to know what the agreement is between the DA's office and Vanessa that offers her prosecutorial (sp?) immunity in this case. Very understandable. We'll see what the Judge thinks.

Motion to Quash and Exception to Substance of Indictment
They don't like that the indictment doesn't detail one specific manner of death that they need to prepare their defense for.

"Further, the indictment alleges 'by administering drugs and suffocating her with a pillow.' The defendant is entitled to know exactly what charge the State plans to proceed on at trial. This indictment alleges three separate means of murder and the defendant is entitled to know by which means the State plans to proceed. The State must make an election as to which manner and means it intends to proceed to trial under."

All three sentences say the exact same thing. These motions could be reduced to a paragraph if they weren't puffed and fluffed so much. Basically, they're confused on how to direct their defense. Why is that complicated? If he didn't murder her in any manner, he didn't murder her in any manner.

Motion to Quash and Exception to Form of Indictment
Again, discussing which manner of death they need to defend. Also,

"Wherefore, premises considered, Matt Baker prays that the Court quash the
indictment due to the defects of form outlined above, and discharge Matt D.
Baker."

Good luck with that one.


Motion for Witness List
Well, that's already filed. I got it yesterday. They also are asking for the reports and data of expert witnesses. They want criminal records of each witness showing every conviction or probation for felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude which is admissible for impeachment. Sounds like a delay tactic to me. Do your own research if you're that worried.

Motion for Voir Dire of Experts
This would be a hearing prior to trial, sans jury, to discuss qualifications of all expert witnesses and determine the underlying facts and data upon which opinion is based. Not sure if this is what will be hashed out tomorrow or if it will be a separate hearing.

Motion for Recovery of Investigative Expenses
Matt's investigator has billed for another $1,500.

Defendants Motion for Discovery of Experts
Just more wanting info on experts.


The divulging of witnesses is a one-way street, it seems. The State has to post their list of witnesses but the defense does not. It's annoying but it's alright. The evidence is heavily in the State's favor. I can't imagine who or what the defense could call that would outweigh the facts and evidence.

Until tomorrow.....

More on pre-trial motions...

Baker trial approaches: 97 witnesses subpoenaed; defense lawyer wants information about alleged girlfriend's deal to testify
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"Most of the pretrial motions filed last week by Danford are routine. However, in one, Baker is asking the judge to order prosecutors to reveal the details of any agreements they entered into to obtain the testimonies of witnesses, especially Bulls, Baker’s alleged former girlfriend.

Judge Matt Johnson granted Bulls testimonial immunity before her March 25 grand jury appearance, meaning nothing she said during her testimony could be used against her. Baker’s lawyers have been unsuccessful thus far in gaining access to a transcript of her grand jury testimony, after which Baker was indicted." (read more)

Pre-Trial Hearing - December 30

Date Set For Murder Trial Of Former Waco-Area Pastor Matt Baker
KWTX.com

"WACO (December 23, 2009)--Former Waco-area pastor Matt Baker, who was
indicted murder in the death of his wife, is set for a final pre-trial hearing next week in Waco before his trial begins in January. Baker and his attorney will appear in Judge Ralph Strother's 19th State District Court next Wednesday for the final pre-trial hearing.

Baker's trial is set to begin on Jan. 11, 2010.

Assistant McLennan County District Attorneys Susan Schaeffer and
Crawford Long are prosecuting the case." (read more)

Trial dates set for Matt Baker
KXXV.com

"19th District Court records show Matt Baker is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on Dec. 30 and his full trial is set to begin on Jan. 11." (read more)

Justice in 2010

Mark your calendars for justice to finally arrive mid-January 2010. Jury selection starts January 12 with the trial following. Less than a month away now. We have all waited long enough. And it is time. We've waited long enough for this justice and to hold Matt Baker responsible for taking my son's teacher, Jim and Linda's daughter, Adam's sister....but most importantly Kensi and Grace's Mother.

Once all the evidence is laid out there for everyone to see, it will all be so clear....beyond a reasonable doubt....that Matt Baker must spend the rest of his life in prison for his crime.

Did he really think he would get away with murder? That good people would walk away and JUST FORGET? Kari was loved and WE fight for those we love....and they don't even have to be our own blood. This profound sense of justice and love may not be something someone like Matt Baker would understand. It's powerful stuff.

JUSTICE FOR KARI (AND KENSI & GRACE) IN 2010!

"If something happens, check out my husband...."

I received an email from someone else whose life was tragically touched by a possible Eraser Killer. With permission, I am sharing that with you here.

I just wanted to tell you what an impact that Kari’s case has made on me. You see, my own Mother was supposedly found pulseless, with blue lips, and cold in early March of 2008 by her then husband. As the twisted story unraveled, it became more and more clear that he had done something to our Mother. We believe he suffocated her as well, after shoving pills in her mouth to make it look like she had overdosed or something.

These men out there, that have such disregard for life, that they feel they must kill in order to be less burdened or feel they are going to lose there belonging because of a divorce they would rather commit such terrible acts, just make me sick. In my Mother’s case, the ambulance was called almost 45 minutes after he said he found her and only when her best friend came over to drive her to her Dr. Appt she had. The paramedics worked on her all the way to the hospital, then the hospital worked on her for well over an hour, finally regaining a pulse, but it was to late because she was brain dead due to lack of oxygen. My Mother was 2 days before turning 61.

My mother's case is an open investigation that seems to just drag on. We are trying to get Mama exhumed, but the case is just dragging. I have had to hire a team of private investigators, including a forensics death nurse to assist in the investigation because of the slow pace of the sheriff’s office.

I just want you and Kari’s family to know that there are more of these “Eraser” killers out there than you know and I pray that you get the justice for Kari that you deserve. I know what a relief this will be for you, when he is convicted. I too, await that day when my monster step father pays for what he did to my Mother. He remarried another woman 5 weeks after my Mother was buried, and her name is the same name as my Mama, and she is the same age as well as body build. These men are truly evil and the thing about it is he thinks he has gotten away with this. Just like I am sure Matt felt until he was finally arrested. And "his" timeline of
events is as way off on his version of the "truth" as Matt's is.

Kari’s case is so similar to my mother’s that it put chills on me when I watched it. I know the pain you all carry day to day, because I share the same pain.

I emailed her back thanking her for her email and to let her know I'd add her to my prayers. I also asked if I might share her story on the blog. The following is a portion of her response:

Thank you so much for your kind response. All prayers are certainly needed and most certainly deeply appreciated.

We did not do an autopsy at the time of my Mother’s death. “He” had told me and my siblings he had feared she had “overdosed” due to pills coming out of her mouth when he arrived home. I wanted to have the autopsy done, but my siblings just could not bear it, especially thinking that Mama could have overdosed accidentally or utherwise. So for sake of not fighting at the hospital, it was not done.

I turned over all of my Mother’s medical reports from the ambulance, hospitals and her regular Dr.’s to the forensics death nurse who is also a licensed private investigator. She went through each report and evaluated her findings. She also is the one that introduced me to “Eraser” killers and felt “HE” met the profile. She has assisted many different agencies as an expert witness. I felt she was truly needed, as I had to show the sheriff’s office that we believed foul play was involved and that it was not just a stroke , natural causes or any other excuse they could find. I have found her knowledge and expertise in this field, crucial to my Mama’s case.

Shannon, I am honored that you offered to put my email on your blog. Please, Please do so. I believe the more it is put out there, that these monsters exists amongst us, the more educated people can become. My Mama also told her best friend around a month before her death “if anything happens to me look into “HIM.” Just like Kari.

I just ask that you do not use my name or Mama’s name at this time. Also, my private investigators wanted me to let you know how we “all” had watched the re-airing of Kari’s story coincidentally at the same time and how it effected all of us. We “all” just could not believe the similarities, almost as if “HE” had taken notes from Matt.

You have no idea the pains I have been through to get the authorities to listen to me and look into that monster that was married to my Mother. My Mother would still be here today if it were not for “HIM”, just as I am convinced Kari would be still here as well. That is what is so tragic. So full of life and love for their families only to have the life snuffed out of them by a bold faced, lying, manipulative, coward who could only see the importance of their on life and no one else’s.

May God bless Kari's family with the justice deserved as you all approach the trial, and I will be praying for her family, as well as continuing my own quest for justice for my sweet Mother.

For more information on Eraser Killers, please re-visit my post Eraser Killers - Men Who Make Women Disappear. Also, check into Marilee Strong's book, "Erased: Missing Women, Murdered Wives."

And don't miss the article on lemondrop.com discussing Strong's book. In the photo gallery, you'll find Matt Baker listed in the company of Scott Peterson, Mark Hacking, Ira Einhorn, Tim Boczkowski, Barton Corbin and Drew Peterson. The experts see this so clearly.

Thoughts from Kari's BFF

Jill Hotz left this message as a comment on another post. I wanted to share it here so it wouldn't be missed. Beautiful words, Jill. Thanks for sharing them.

"Kari Baker lives in the spirit of her girls. Sometimes its in a smile, or a look or a laugh. She's there, there is no erasing her mark. Kari Baker is still there when her students overcome academic odds and when her friends can't see through the tears. She lives in the hearts of all of us who cherished her. I will proudly proclaim my honor and loyalty to Kari. Justice is coming soon."

More on the postponement

Murder trial for former Baptist minister Matt Baker pushed back to January
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"The unavailability of the medical examiner who performed an autopsy on Kari Baker has forced the postponement of Matt Baker’s murder trial." (read more)

While I hate to have a delay in getting down to the business of justice, it's better to wait until all the prosecution's experts and witnesses can be there to give their testimony. This medical examiner must have really good stuff that the DA's office wants the Judge and jury to hear. So all in all, it's a good thing.


KWTX.com reports: Matt Baker Murder Trial Reset for 2010

"The medical examiner also reported there was evidence she had been smothered." (read more)

Very interesting. Evidence. Smothered.

Baker murder trial rescheduled

Baker murder trial rescheduled
Bruce Gietzen with Channel 25 News reports:

"WACO - Just before 3 pm News Channel 25 Matt Baker's murder trial has been for more than three months and has now been rescheduled for January 12, 2010. The former Waco-area pastor is charged with killing his wife, Kari, by drugging her with sleeping pills and then suffocating her with a pillow in the bedroom of their Hewitt home.

A spokesperson in Judge Ralph Strother's 19th District Court confirmed the schedule change, saying some of the witnesses in the case could not participate September 29th, when the trial was set to begin." (read more)

Will let you know more when I know more.

Gatesville High School Pageant

Kari's cousin, David, emailed me a couple of pictures from a Gatesville High School pageant that Kari was in. She was a freshman. David a sophmore. The GHS pageant had representatives from different organizations in the school and they were representing the speech team. In the first photo, they were "nerdy debaters." LOL


Thanks, David, for another "blast from the past." I know that Kari's family and friends will love the memory and those that didn't know Kari will enjoy seeing yet another wonderful part of Kari's gregarious and active life.

Someone is "Concerned"

At the bottom of the WacoTrib.com's recent article about this case, you will find some comments. One made this morning by "Concerned" shows just how concerned a certain individual is. They should have signed their comment "Desperate but have nothing else." I had to respond. Below you will find "Concerned's" comment followed by mine.

"By Concerned
Aug 31, 2009 8:05 AM Link to this
Kari was a disturbed individual. The media and her family are in total denial. Every year around the date of her daughter's death she could not function as a human being. She would spend at least a week in bed and on medication to get over the week. I hope that the jury hears the truth in this case and not just what her parents want them to hear."

"By Shannon
Aug 31, 2009 8:41 AM Link to this
Dear Concerned, Kari is not the disturbed individual involved here. And if you truly knew her, you wouldn't/couldn't say that. Unless you are the one person that did know her that is desperate for the world to believe your lies. I (among many, many others) saw Kari almost daily during March and April and did not see, hear, experience this "could not function as a human being" you talk of. And as you know, she did not die during that "week" anyway. In fact, I saw Kari that Friday afternoon and she was upbeat, jovial and making plans for the weekend and her new job. You gotta give up that lame defense. Mountains of evidence to refute it. And don't worry, the jury will hear all kinds of truth. The DA's office (not the Dulins) is running this show and he's got this thing lock, stock and barrel. There is only one thing you should be concerned about and my guess is that you very much are."

* At this time, there is a Kerrville IP address on this blog. Has been for at least 33 minutes. Probably came right over here after leaving said comment on the Trib. I may be wrong. Just an observation.
** Now this same person is showing up Unknown city. Same IP address. But "in disguise."

Trib article on picking a jury for preacher cases....

Picking Central Texas jurors for trials of pastors can be 2-edged sword
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"When the criminal defendant is a preacher, politician or police officer —
occupations that elicit strong emotions in a number of areas — attorneys
sometimes spend extra time during jury selection trying to find out prospective
jurors’ attitudes about that and related topics." (read more)

I can only imagine the intricacies involved. It is very much a double-edge sword. Don't you think? It's a very interesting topic for discussion. But regardless, the facts of this case will stand firm in the minds of those on all ends of the religious views spectrum. Justice is justice....even when it's a long time coming.

Jury selection is scheduled to start September 28th. Trial following.

Thoughts of Kari on her birthday

Are there birthdays in Heaven?
Does the angel blow his horn?
Announcing to everybody
That this is the day you were born?

Can the stars be your balloons
And angel food your cake?
Presents wrapped in moonbeams
All the angels helped to make.

Birthdays meant so much to you
They were always a big deal
Birthday presents, lots of friends
And perhaps a special meal.

So I’ll whisper a little prayer today
Asking everyone up above
To sing you a Happy Birthday song
And give you all our love.

~ Author Unknown ~

The next to last picture is how I personally see Kari in my mind. The last picture is how I'm going to think of her today. Happy Birthday, my friend.

Click here to read last year's birthday post.

****I put up the Birthday Song because at this point, I think Kari would want us to miss her and laugh...wipe the tears....and laugh out loud. Lord knows she gave us plenty of reasons to. ;) Love you all!!

Pics from WCS Days.....

Had a fellow Warrior send me some pics including Kari from back in the WCS Days. THANKS!!



Click here for more great WCS photos of Kari Dulin!

A couple more pictures.......

.......from a dear friend who loved Kari dearly. Thanks Jill for the memories of you, Kari, Carrie and friends. (circa 1990-91)

Friends, Family & Sorority Sisters

48 Hours really reached a lot of people in their recent re-airing of "The Preacher's Wife." I hear that this episode was watched by so many that it was in the Top 10 for the week.

So many people contacted me to show support and encouragement for Kari's family and all those fighting for Justice for Kari and her girls. Kari's Mom has also been found and contacted by many of Kari's friends from the past, including several Pi Phi sorority sisters from Tech. A couple of them recently sent pictures to Linda and she sent them to me with permission to share here. Kari was always so involved and in the thick of the action. She is missed by so many.

Not hard to find her, but just in case: front row, first on left

Memories from a Dear Friend....

One of Kari's dear, close friends left some memories of her times with Kari in the "Share your Memories of Kari" area of this blog today. I am putting it here in a post to make sure everyone gets to read it.

"Janelle said...

My memories of Kari: We met in a sign language class at Baylor. We became friends very quickly. I visited her church and shortly afterward, I became the music minister while she served as the youth minister. We did many projects together. She also sang in the choir that I directed. She and I sang duets as well as performed songs in sign language.Kari always had her daughters decked out in the cutest clothes. She handled them with such a calmness and a bit of sarcasm thrown in for sanity's sake.Anytime there was a gathering at her house she served hot dogs. Always hot dogs. She claimed that everyone liked them and they were easy to serve.

Kari introduced me to up and coming praise music. We listened to the same 2 CD's for 2 years learning every song by heart.

I was with Kari the first night Kassidy was in the hospital. I remember that she left Kassidy for about an hour while the two of us went to the grocery store to buy groceries for a needy family that the church knew of. After leaving the groceries at the family's house, I remember eating taco bell together at the hospital! I was so amazed at her strength and faith. She was out helping others in need with the constant faith that Kassidy would be cared for. I believe I was one of the first people she called the night Kassidy passed away. I will never forget that phone call. There was nothing I could do to ease my friend's pain. I loved the way she helped explain it all to Kensi.

Kari became pregnant with Grace a month after I got pregnant. We even had the same doctor. We shared all of our aches, pains and complaints as well as our TUMS that we ate like candy for the heartburn. We even shared maternity clothes. She was excited to have Grace.

We were student teaching at the same school during our pregnancies. Neither of us enjoyed our student teaching and took turns crying to each other. We got each other through the semester, no doubt. We also took one night class that semester and carpooled together. We had to do a skit in front of the whole class (Kari was an amazing actress. She wasn't afraid to do anything!) Needless to say, we played the parts of pregnant women in that skit.

I was a first time mother and my daughter was born exactly 1 month and 1 day before Grace. Kari was so calm and relaxed. She knew exactly what she was doing with baby Grace. I panicked. She always let me know that stuff was "no big deal" and offered advice.

Kari would talk with her hands and her bracelets would jingle. Her hair was always so cute. I was envious because I could never wear my hair that way. She laughed a lot. She was very friendly. She was a hard worker and a good student. She always accomplished whatever she put her mind to. She was a good singer. She was good at sign language. Motherhood was her passion. She knew the Bible and I admired the knowledge that she had. She was compassionate. She'd cry with people over their burdens. She was one of those rare people who would ask about YOU, not just talk about herself. No doubt, Kari had a heart for Jesus.

She is in Heaven with Kassidy and constantly watching over Kensi and Grace. Nothing would be more important to her. I bet she sings with the Angels and cracks them up with something funny now and then.

I miss her very much. I always had hope that we'd be back in touch and keep our friendship going. I guess I have to wait to see her in Heaven."

Thanks so much, Janelle! What a precious friendship you two shared.

If any of you have memories to share or even have shared some and want to share some more, please feel free to do so anytime! The "Share Your Memories of Kari" link is always available in the right-hand column above the closed poll thing. Thanks! I'm sure these memories are so precious to Kari's family.

Watch 48 Hours Episode....

CBSnews.com has put "The Preacher's Wife" in its entirety on their website. So if you missed it, you can see it here.

After talking to many people from Kerrville, it would appear that the "Supporters of Matt Panel" on 48 Hours are mostly people that knew him as a child and that are friends and loyal to his parents, more so than to Matt. What they know of Matt as an adult, is post-Kari, post-arrested-for-murder, in full-defense-you-gotta-believe-me mode. And I know of at least one or two of the people that were shown on the panel regret their early-on, not-knowing-the-evidence, support of Matt and have been mortified as it comes out. That's just that I know of. I'm sure there's more. Don't think that the mass of Kerrville folks are on his side. I've heard from too many that say they, and those around them, firmly believe in Matt's guilt. Kerrville is full of wonderful, wise people.

And again, this 48 Hours was recorded and compiled over a year ago before reams and reams and reams of evidence against Matt was made public. All before his mistress spoke out to the Grand Jury and spilled something so damning that she got immunity out of telling what she knew. This is huge. At the time the show was filmed, the people on that panel had no idea about these things as they were hidden from them by the defense wanting both moral and financial support.

The first part is mainly from Matt's point of view. Keep in mind, though, that much of what he says can conveniently only be confirmed by him....since Kari is no longer here. Gives him lots of room for completely making things up. Whatever he wants to say to make Kari look depressed and/or suicidal. EVERYONE else that was around Kari says the exact opposite about her attitude, demeanor and outlook on life. So you decide who you believe...a confirmed, caught-in-the-act-dozens-of-times liar on trial for murder....or everyone else.

The rest of the show catches Matt in lies and inconsistencies and compete impossibilities of his "story" of that night being possible. And the show had access to and/or was allowed to focus in on such a small, tiny percentage of the evidence available. Imagine if it was a fresh show with all the new evidence. You come away with the feeling Matt is guilty after this? Just wait. September is coming.

Watching it again....

It's so hard to stomach all of Matt's obvious lies. So many are actually pointed out on the show. So many....so little time. There is so much concrete evidence that 48 Hours didn't have time to show....or might have not been allowed to show at that time. It's coming out now, isn't it? So much coming in Fall of 2009. Put on your seatbelts.

I watched this show with Brody tonight. His poignant remarks and observations astound me. I'm still in shock that my now 12 year old son and I are here watching this, crying, knowing, waiting. I'll never forget telling my son that weekend that Mrs. Baker was dead. I'll never forget in the next year (because of the arrest and it coming up in the news) having to tell him what I knew all along.... The look in his eyes. He's much wiser now. But it's not all that much easier.

There have been over 361 different visitors on this blog just in the last hour tonight. I can't count how many of you are on here as I write this. But the love and dedication to Kari's memory and the fight for justice is obviously felt by so many. God bless you all. Hang on. Justice is coming. And it's coming hard. Not fast. But hard.

Moriarty's Reporter's Notebook

"Erin Moriarty talks about her upcoming report on Matt and Kari Baker. After Kari died, Matt - a preacher - found himself accused of murder." ~ CBSNews.com

Watch CBS Videos Online

This was made last year just before the original airing of "The Preacher's Wife." Be sure and watch tonight with updates on recent events.

48 Hours Update

48 Hours will be airing an update on the Baker case June 9, Tuesday, from 9-10 pm. Be sure to tune in! 48 Hours has really done their homework and they have traveled to Waco several times to keep personally up to date.

CLARIFICATION: They will re-air "The Preacher's Wife" that was on 48 Hours last year and then follow up with info and footage of Matt's arrest, arraignment, indictment and other recent events in the case.

Memorial Day Visit

Our family went to the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Rosemound Cemetery today. Very powerful. God bless our fallen soldiers. And God protect our current ones.

This cemetery is just a couple of blocks from Oakwood Cemetery so we made a quick stop at Kari's grave. Kari's Dad has planted a couple sweet rosebushes there recently. I decided to take a picture and share.

Hug your families tight today.

Those darned skeletons....

.....just won't stay in the closet.

Prosecutors subpoena Matt Baker's school records, preparing for murder trial
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"McLennan County prosecutors are seeking Matt Baker’s college and high school records pertaining to any criminal investigations, disciplinary actions and counseling sessions." (read more)

More attorney shuffling........

Gray is back in the Baker saddle.

Former Waco-area pastor changes attorney defending him in his wife's death
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"The former East Texas prosecutor who invited the media to come take their best shots at Matt Baker is back on the case." (read more)

I wonder if Ellison is ticked...or relieved.

I want people to know what a great person Kari was...

I received this very heartfelt, beautiful email from a friend of Kari's today. With permission, I want to share some of it with you. It, among other memories shared here, helps paint the portrait of the precious life of Kari:

Shannon,

I have been reading your blog for a while and have wanted to write you many times but it never felt like the right time. I have known Matt and Kari since the spring of 98. At that time Matt was preaching at the church I had attended on and off. The first time I met Kari I feel in love with her. Her personality, the way she carried herself, of love of life just attracted me to her.

Yes, I had a relationship with both of them but the real relationship came from Kari. She was the "big sister" I never had. No matter what she was going through, she always had time for me. She never treated me as this little kid but as a person she cared for. After Kassidy died our youth minister left before we were suppose to go to camp. Without even hesitating Kari agreed to become our youth minister and take us to camp in Glorieta New Mexico. That trip with her, I will never forget. I really saw Kari's love for what God wanted her to do. Not many people could have put up with 15 kids, 13 of the junior high. I teach JH right now and there is no way I could have done what she did. I really got to know Kari during that trip. We talked alot about life, friends, family, and Kassidy. She knew that she would miss Kassidy always because a part of her was gone, but she understood that the Lord had a reason. She said it took her a while to come to that but she would look at Kensi and knew that she needed to take care of the precious angel she had left.

Then when she found out she was pregnant... that was funny. She came out to my car as I was getting to church and she told me she had some big news for me. She told me she was pregnant. I just looked at her because I wasn't sure if she would be happy about that or not because she said she didn't want a baby. She told me that at first she was really scared about having another child but she said it was meant to be. She told me from day one that she would call her "Grace" if it was a girl because it was by the grace of God that she was pregnant. She loved her girls oh so much. She would call me and tell me any crazy thing they did, and with Grace there was always a funny moment. She was so proud of them.

True, Kari was a hard person to crack. She, like myself, put up a wall to protect herself. We talked about this from time to time and we realized in our minds that we did this to see how bad people really wanted to get in. If you didn't care enough to try to break through the wall then maybe you didn't deserve to get inside her. Anyone who broke through and got to know Kari was never the same. I know I haven't been.

Even through our relationship started out as "preacher wife/youth" it was never just that. She became my best friend. She welcomed me into her family, trusted me with her kids, gave me a couch to lay on and vent, and a shoulder to cry on. She always wanted what was best for anyone she knew and she would do whatever she could to help that person. I had her as a youth minister and a college professor. She taught me more than she would ever know and stuff that I am just now realizing. She was my rock and I regret not telling her everything she meant to me.

When Kari died part of me died. Then when the allegations against Matt came about after I saw things with my own eyes, more of me died. I was so depressed that I almost didn't graduate college. I missed her so much. I tried to talk to someone but how could they understand what I was going through. The knock on my door the morning she died forever changed my life.

I want people to know what a great person Kari was. I want people to know that this world was such a better place with her in it. I want people to know that Kensi and Grace have so much of their mom in them. I have no doubt in my mind that they will do great things when they grow up because of their mom and what she gave them in just a short time. See Kari may be gone, but she lives everyday in those girls. Her DNA is in them and for that I know they will be ok. I want the world to know that no matter what may happen in the courts, Kari lived her life to the fullest. Understanding that life is short and don't ever regret what you could have done something about. Kari left impression on my life and I am forever grateful. I want people to know that we can make sure Kari still leaves an impact on this world by passing on what she gave us. I want people to know that Kari Lynn Baker was not only my friend, my youth minister, my teacher, but she was always so much more. She showed everyday how God used her. She lived her life for him and there couldn't have been a better person to display his great gifts to us then her. What a special angel we have in Heaven watching over us!

Jenny

Thank you, Jenny!

Judge orders Matt Baker to submit DNA

Here's Tommy's article about the hearing yesterday:

Judge orders Matt Baker to submit DNA; rejects request for grand jury records
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"Former Central Texas minister Matt Baker went 0-3 in pretrial motions Friday, being forced to give a DNA sample before he left the McLennan County Courthouse without the transcript he was seeking of what his alleged former girlfriend told the grand jury last month." (read more)

Things get cheek-y....

Long...but interesting morning. The hearing ran about an hour or hour and a half late due to another trial running late in the courtroom. Matt was there with his Mom in tow. Kari's family was there. News from the Waco Tribune, KWTX and KXXV were present. We all waited outside the courtroom for a while. But once we were in, things went quickly.

Defense Motion #1: Suppress having to give DNA
DENIED

Defense Motion #2: Wanted to get their hands on Vanessa's "OMG" Grand Jury testimony
DENIED

Defense Motion #3: Wanted to get their hands on psychiatrist Lee Carter's stuff
DENIED



My layman's interpretation:

It's possible that the defense knew the DNA sample would be taken eventually. They were just banking on having to force a search warrant to get it. I have heard (not verified) that the search warrant comes with the reasons for the DNA sample. They didn't want to give it without knowing the damning tale the search warrant would reveal. If you're innocent, why worry about damning evidence?

Whatever Vanessa told the Grand Jury last month, it was damning enough to warrant immunity for herself....damning enough to warrant an IMMEDIATE indictment and arrest warrant. Maybe damning enough to warrant a DNA sample? Who knows. Even though Ellison said something about a finding from some court somewhere this week that said something about Grand Jury testimony being released, I think the Judge realized it was a ploy and that case had NOTHING to do with this case. Nothing.

Defense brought up something about psychiatrist Lee Carter's findings. Wanted that. Uh, that's civil work. This is a criminal case. The Judge seemed to fight crossing his eyes. (<----totally my interpretation....not mind reading) Either which way, Carter's findings won't help Matt at all. It's actually hurtful to Matt. Does Ellison know what Carter said? Anyway, long story short.....Ellison and Matt were stunned. The Judge graciously provided the break room right off the courtoom for Matt to submit his DNA sample. Priceless.

Here is the news so far from today: Awesome live blog from today's hearing NEW VIDEO: Live blog: April 24 hearing for Matt Baker
Ken Sury
WacoTrib.com

"12:06 p.m. — My apologies for the brief break in blogging, but I had to leave the breakroom as Baker, his attorney, prosecutor Susan Shafer, bailiffs and another individual came into the room in order to take Baker’s DNA sample. I’m assuming it was the usual swab of the inside of each cheek." (read more)

Judge Grants Request For DNA Sample From Waco-Area Pastor Matt Baker
KWTX.com

"WACO (April 24, 2009)—Prosecutors got permission Friday to take a DNA sample as a motions hearing got underway late Friday morning in state district court for former Waco-area pastor Matt Baker, who’s charged with murder in the 2006 death
of his wife, Kari." (read more)

Matt Baker gives DNA sample
Sara Talbert
KXXV.com

"Baker's attorney also filed two new procedural motions this morning in case Baker is convicted. One would allow the possibility of probation, and the other requesting punishment be decided by a jury. Strother will set another hearing to decide on those." (read more)

VERY INTERESTING. Matt's attorney is already seeing a conviction. Hmmmmm........

Ellison opposes motion for Matt's DNA

Attorney for former Waco-area pastor opposes motion to get DNA from his client in murder trial
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"In a motion filed Monday, Baker’s lawyer, Richard Ellison, told 19th State District Judge Ralph Strother that Baker opposes a motion from prosecutors who are seeking a court order to obtain a saliva swab from the former Central Texas Baptist minister." (read more)

If he's innocent and there's nothing to hide, why not give it up?

If you are contacted by author....

Kari's family and I, and as I understand some of you now, have been contacted by a woman that wants to write a book on this case. While I'm sure she is well-intentioned, Kari's family has no desire to participate in anything like this and have made thier feelings known to her. It won't help serve justice. And they worry about how it would affect the girls in the future. Please keep this in mind if you are contacted. And I hope this doesn't run anyone off from being a part of this support for Justice for Kari. Your prayers and support are a great encouragement.

Email me if you have any questions: JusticeforKari@gmail.com.

Expert witnesses for Baker

Expert witnesses in Baker case could be costly to taxpayers
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"Ellison has said that Baker cannot get a fair trial without county funds to hire the experts, none of whom will come cheap. Ellison has indicated in a motion that he needs to hire a crime scene reconstruction expert, a toxicologist, a pharmacologist, a pathologist and a psychologist to combat prosecutionwitnesses in those fields.

Stan Schwieger, former president of the McLennan County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, said the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that indigent defendants are 'basically entitled to the basic building blocks of a defense,' including court-approved funds to retain expertwitnesses, if that is what it takes." (read more)

It does stink that the taxpayers of McLennan County will be footing the bill for Matt's experts, but I do see why it is that way. The Judge knows what happens in cases like this. The Judge knows that if you don't give these "constitutional rights" to defendants like Baker, they can and will come back with mistrial and appeal shenanigans. The Judge wants this impending conviction to STICK. So.....we pay.....for justice. Like Tommy says, they do not get an open check. Basic building blocks. Bring 'em on. The truth will shine through.

"More rare, Mark said, isto be asked to assess the mental condition of someone whom he cannot see or talk to, such as in the case of Kari Baker. In 32 years, he has done it twice, he said.

A psychologist appointed for the Baker defense will be asked to assess if she was suicidal by speaking with her husband, friends,co-workers and others and examining any medical or psychological records that may exist, Mark said.

'You do a psychiatric autopsy, if you will,' Mark said. 'There are anumber of things you can do, but I don’t think it would be that precise in any case, looking at it after the fact. You can point to pros and cons, think this is why it may have occurred, look at all the factors involved, like whether there were cyclical bouts of depression. But the bottom line is that you may never really know for sure.'" (read more)

Assess away! Please! Those other than Matt, his mother (who thought suicide wasn't a bad option for Kari) and his ever-dwindling circle of supporters in Kerrville that didn't even know Kari....others actually IN Kari's life that knew her in the past or at the time of her death will clearly attest to her character and attitude and lifestyle. Assess away! It might cost the taxpayers more money because the line of these people will be sooooo long, but go for it. Please and thank you.

DA wants DNA

What's this? The DA wants Matt's DNA? Could this mean there IS evidence? Evidence to compare DNA with? Well, I'll be.

An innocent man should have no issue with this. It will help prove his innocence, after all. Right?

Also, Matt's attorney is itching to see what Vanessa spilled to the grand jury. Something so big that she got immunity out of it. Something so big Matt was immediately indicted and arrest warrant issued without delay. Something so big that as a condition of reducing the bond amount, the Judge ordered that neither Matt nor anyone from his defense could contact her. She needed protection. We'll all hear it soon enough.

Prosecutors ask judge to order Matt Baker to submit DNA sample
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"The motion filed by prosecutor Crawford Long asks Strother to order Baker to submit to a swab of the inside of his mouth 'for the purpose of obtaining DNA for comparison to an item or items' gathered in the murder investigation.

Strother also will consider a motion from Baker’s attorney, Richard Ellison, who has asked for a copy of transcripts of testimony from grand jury witnesses, which are confidential unless ordered released by a judge." (read more)

Prosecutors Want To Collect Ex-Pastor’s DNA
KWTX.com - Channel 10

"The motion asks Judge Strother to direct the defendant to, 'to submit to the taking of a DNA sample by the swabbing of the interior of the defendant's mouth for the purpose of obtaining DNA for comparison to an item taken and collected in relation to the offense that is the basis of this prosecution.'"

State files motion seeking Baker's DNA
Loren Korn
KWWV-TV - Channel 25

The judge has scheduled a hearing for April 24 to consider motions filed by the DA's office and by Ellison.

Defense wants grand jury transcripts

Former Waco-area pastor trying to get access to grand jury testimony in preparation for his murder trial
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"Matt Baker is curious to find out what his alleged former girlfriend told a McLennan County grand jury last month that led to his murder indictment in the April 2006 death of his wife, Kari." (read more)

also...

"Baker has acknowledged that he gave his wife’s cell phone to Bulls after she
died and that they racked up hundreds of hours of calls on the phone." (read more)

And from the many witnesses (like the commenter in the post below) looks like the two of them spent lots and lots of hours together in perso on top of all the hundreds of hours on the phone.

Kerrville's Topix.com...

There have been lots of interesting comments over the last year Kerrville's Topix.com about the Baker case. This one is new and along the lines of A LOT of what I've been hearing over the last 2 years.

From "neighbor in Woodway, TX":

"I lived down the street from Matt and Kari in Hewitt. Matt was arrogant and weirdly immature for a minister his age. Even after Kari died. We felt so sorry for him but when I approached him, he seemed bored with my sentiments for him and his girls. "We'll be fine" is all he said and changed the subject to talk about what our children were doing the next weekend.

And that woman was at his house all the time just a week later. All hours. She was even at the oldest girls slumber party that same month. She had her head on his shoulder and he laid on the couch with his head in her lap. It freaked some of the girls out. That was what made me think Kari didn't die of her own will. Not kari's parents. it was all Matt.

Glad to know people in Kerrville aren't as snowed as the Bakers would have us think."

Hey Matt....

Was the "purple fuzzy lamp" in one of the boxes of Kari's stuff you put at the curb for the trashman? Just wondering. My son asked about it tonight.

Accused murderer Baker bonds out for $250,000

Former Waco-Area Pastor Matt Baker Released From Jail
KWTX.com - Channel 10

WACO (April 10, 2009)--Former Waco-area pastor Matt Baker was released from the McLennan County Jail Friday afternoon, a day after a state district judge reduced his bond from $500,000 to a $250,000 surety bond, which required him to post $25,000 in cash. (read more)

Accused murderer Baker bonds out for $250,000
Wendy Gragg
WacoTrib.com

Former Baptist minister Matt Baker posted bond and left McLennan County Jail late this afternoon. His bond was $250,000. (read more)

Judge approves $250,000 surety bond in Matt Baker murder case

Judge approves $250,000 surety bond in Matt Baker murder case
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

Baker Pleads Not Guilty; Judge Grants Bond Reduction
KWTX.com - Channel 10
There is a good video on the KWTX.com site. There is video and audio of Matt and also interviews and some explanations by Judge Strother.

Bond reduced for former Baptist pastor charged with wife's murder
David R. Wilkinson
Associated Baptist Press

Busy day in court...

::clink:: ::clink:: ::clink:: ::clink::
I have not seen Baker in person since shortly after Kari died. What a way to see him. The wide horitontal black and white striped jumpsuit. Rubber flipflops. Chains around his waist and wrists. Chains on his ankles that clinked on the hard courtroom floor as he walked. The beginnings of justice.
::clink:: ::clink:: ::clink:: ::clink::

WacoTrib.com Photo Slideshow
Picture #7 is chilling.

The courtroom was very full. Family. Investigators. Lawyers. And lots of press. The familiar faces of Erin Moriarty and Lisa Freed with 48 Hours. 20/20 and Dateline people as well. The local major news stations and Tommy Witherspoon with the WacoTrib were present.

After being seated in the courtroom, there was a "in chambers" meeting that lasted about an hour. Included in that were the judge, the two attorneys with the DA's office, the investigator with the DA's office, Matt and his attorney, Ellison, and the court reporter. My layman's interpretation of the explanation of that meeting was discussing Ellison's allegations that the DA's office inappropriately contacted Baker about a DNA sample.....Ellison wanting sanctions and/or protective orders against the DA's office for that....DENIED. DENIED. DENIED.

Arraignment time. The Judge asks Matt how he pleads to the charges of First Degree Murdery. Matt answers, "Not guilty." Of course. It is still amazing to me those words can come out of his mouth.

Next was discussion pertaining to bond reduction. Matt was on the stand and answered these planned out, boring questions from his attorney. Stuff like (and I'm not quoting, just general idea paraphrasing) Would you show up to court when the time comes? Are you a flight risk? Will you be a good boy while you wait for trial? Ellison asked him if he turned himself in this time? Well, yes, of course he did. He's working the strategy. He asked him if he turned himself in last September of 2007. Matt said, yes. He failed to mention that when the Texas Ranger came to his place of employment to arrest him.....well, did Matt turn himself in? Nope. He ran from that building. He ran. Fled. Not for long, mind you. He was advised to turn himself in. But he fled. His attorney failed to mention that little tidbit of information. Whatever. They had one lady friend testify for his sake with similar pre-planned questions (general paraphrasing) Do you know Matt and his parents? Are they good people? Do you think Matt will be good? Do you think Matt will show up to court? No surprise questions or answers. Then Ellison goes in his rants about his client HAVING A CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT to bond reduction. He loves to use that phrase, CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS, a lot. Seemingly daring the Judge to not give him what he wants. Heck, anything for a mistrial once Matt's found guilty. Something to fall back on.

The Judge made it very clear that if Matt does meet bond and gets out while waiting for trial, it is with the condition that he has NO contact with Vanessa Bulls whatsoever! I wonder what all the background on that is. My guess is she wanted that "protection" after testifying. I'm nervous for her if Matt gets out.

Anyway, barring any hard evidence of Matt being a flight risk, the Judge lowered his bond to a 250,000 surety bond. This means he only has to come up with 10-15% to bond out. He mentioned a family friend that helped last time by putting his property on the line for money for Matt and that Matt felt this guy might be able to do it at 200,000 again this time. Surely that man is double and triple thinking what is right. Matt wasn't indicted last time. This time he is indicted for First Degree Murder with heavy evidence and a key witness that secured that indictment. Not only is there the risk that he might run....especially as more and more evidence is made known and he is NOT going to want to see the backside of those bars again.....but just on what is the right thing to do. I want to help my friends, too. But if they do something this heinous, well......there are lines I wouldn't cross. Pray for their soul, yes. Support their crime, no.

There was much talk about whether to claim Matt indigent. It's obvious he doesn't make much money. He doesn't own property. He's gone through the insurance money from Kari's death. He claimed it was only $40,000 and basically used for legal fees. No mention of down payment on expensive truck around that time. Okay. Okay. They talked about how much he made with the part-time ebay job an how much he had coming in a month for living expenses. Matt and his attorney conveniently forgot to list the money the girls get from Kari's social security. It's THEIR money, I know. I don't think it should be used for his defense fund (or his truck payment) but I do think it should be calculated in when discussing living expenses. Anyway. He's indigent. But it was SO OBVIOUS that the Judge was NOT HAPPY with Matt getting McLennan County tax payers' money for experts in his defense. Especially since Matt is paying an attorney and not going the state-appointed indigent route. Cake and eat it, too? But then Ellison brings back his client had a CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT to have experts in his defense. Again, the Judge had to give some. He didn't give him an open-ended check, though. He wants a list of experts and amounts ahead of time. Oh, well....I don't mind helping to pay for this trial to be done fair and right with nothing for Ellison and Baker to fall back on for mistrials of justice. Let's do it right. The Judge is being very careful and thorough and I feel good that this case is being tried in his Court.

There were a few other matters that I'm still trying to figure out. There are lots more matters coming up in future hearings. And I'm sure the news stories and videos will have much more specific information. I just wanted to give my thoughts on the day. More later.

Live blog: Hearing on bond reduction request for Matt Baker by Ken Sury w/ WacoTrib.com

Baker Pleads Not Guilty; Judge Grants Bond Reduction KWTX.com - Channel 10

I'll add more news links as I come across them.

Someone is freaking out...

Someone is terrified. Someone's attorney is terrified. I wonder why. Don't they have the truth on THEIR side? Isn't it true that the prosecution just has absolutely nothing on him? Isn't the evidence against him non-existent? Aren't they anxious for their day in court so the truth can come out?

Now the defense is scrambling. Scrambling and making stuff up. Thursday's arraignment and obligatory bond-reduction hearing is turning into,oh, so much more. Let the drama mount.

In an article by Tommy Witherspoon for the WacoTrib.com yesterday, you see that Matt's attorney is upset at the request for a DNA sample. Why? Really? Don't you want to clear Matt of any wrong doing? What are you afraid it's going to show? The TRUTH? I obviously wasn't there at the jailhouse. But I doubt the McLennan County DA's office would breach any kind of legal or ethical boundries in this highly analyzed, highly publicized case. Defense is desperate here.

Now, Matt Baker needs/wants experts and he wants McLennan County to pick up the tab? Tommy Witherspoon's WacoTrib.com article Former Waco-area preacher asks court to appoint defense experts in his murder trial in his wife's death today states:

"Former Waco-area Baptist preacher Matt Baker says he is indigent and is asking McLennan County taxpayers to pick up the tab for expert witnesses to help defend him on charges he murdered his wife.

In a motion filed Tuesday seeking funds to hire court-appointed experts, Baker’s attorney, Richard Ellison, of Kerrville, says 'fairness and due process' require that 19th State District Judge Ralph Strother approve funds for defense experts in psychology, toxicology, pharmacology and crime scene reconstruction."

Say it isn't so. Oh, well.....as much as I don't want to pay for his defense, I'm fine with paying for him to have a good enough attempt now so he can't come back later and cry foul. The truth will stand loud and clear all on its own.

Pictures from Today

I know the official date is April 8....but we all know it was actually Friday, the 7th. I went by this afternoon to drop off some flowers and say a prayer. On this 3rd anniversary, justice is finally just around the corner.

And one for sweet little Kassidy....

20/20 - Former Texas Pastor Matt Baker Indicted in Wife's 2006 Death

On their website, 20/20 has done an update on the case.
Former Texas Pastor Matt Baker Indicted in Wife's 2006 Death

One paragraph really bothers me. It is a quote from Matt's mother.

"Suicide is an answer to pain you can't get rid of," Barbara Baker said. "There was pain that Kari was undergoing that she either couldn't or didn't get the proper help for and that was not a bad answer for her."

Seriously? Am I reading that right? She is saying that suicide wasn't a bad answer for Kari?? No love lost there, I guess.

Associated Baptist Press Story

Bob Allen with the Associated Baptist Press has written a great article about Matt Baker for their website.
Former Baptist pastor indicted on murder charge

"'Justice for Kari' bumper stickers are showing up on car bumpers as far away as France.

(Photo courtesy of 'Don't Even Get Me Started' blog)"

And here is another article by Bob Allen dated February 28, 2008 for Ethicsdaily.com:
Article Says Preacher Charged With Killing Wife a Sexual Predator

Eraser Killers - Men Who Make Women Disappear

It's always interesting to check the blog stats and see how people are getting here. Today, I found a couple of message boards (on different kinds of subject matters) where people were talking about how people in Kerrville and Waco felt about Matt Baker.

I also found this case referred to on lemondrop.com where they are talking about Marilee Strong's book, "Erased: Missing Women, Murdered Wives." Marilee Strong (among others) puts Matt Baker in the company of Scott Peterson, Mark Hacking, Ira Einhorn, Tim Boczkowski, Barton Corbin and Drew Peterson for starters. If you go to this page on lemondrop.com and then click on the arrows to view the various photos/stories, Matt Baker is right after Scott Peterson and Mark Hacking.

Here is the blip about this case:

"Something Not Right But some women had a feeling something would happen, and in many cases told friends or relatives, 'If something happens, check out my husband.'

In one recent case, a Baptist minister named Matt Baker claimed to have found his wife Kari dead in bed with a bottle of over-the-counter sleeping pills. They later discovered on his computer that he's researched death by overdose of sleeping pills. She also told a counselor who came forward after her death that she had found a bag of crushed pills in her husband's briefcase. Eraser crimes often involve months of preparation."

You can read more about What Makes an Eraser Killer on that website or in Strong's book. But I wanted to point out a few quotes from Marilee for you to think about:

"There are three aspects to their psychological profile. First, they have psychopathic traits and no empathy. If they can take their wife's body and chop it up and put it through a woodchipper or anchor their wife and child to the bottom of the bay -- what person could do that if they had human emotion at that level?

Yet these people aren't out-of-control, pure predators like Charles Manson or Ted Bundy. The violence is limited to their wives or girlfriends, sometimes their children or fetuses. They're so narcissistic, and they want to be the center of the world. They reach a point where they see these women and children as a burden, as an inconvenience. They're not motivated by jealousy, rage or revenge. Those things may be secondary, but what they want to do is wipe the slate clean and erase the person as if it never happened.

The third aspect of their psychology is Machiavellianism – the ability to manipulate others and strategize and plan in very dark ways. They often have an image they portray to the world as warm, generous, charming, a perfect husband or boyfriend. Ira Einhorn, a world-renowned peace expert, killed his girlfriend Holly Maddux and
kept her, like a trophy, in a trunk in his home for 18 months. These men are so cold-hearted they're perfectly happy to lie to the media, police and loved ones. Part of the narcissism is that they think they're smarter than everyone and can pull off the perfect murder -- they enjoy the battle of wits."

AND

"Easier Than Divorce Because of their unusual psychology, eraser killers believe it is easier, quicker and more emotionally satisfying to kill than to get a divorce. They're so selfish, they don't want to share anything or have to support a wife or a child -- they just want to start over. And some just can't handle the idea of potentially looking bad by getting a divorce. If you could ever get Scott Peterson to honestly answer this question, he would probably say that he didn't divorce Laci because that would hurt her. Yet somehow, in his mind, killing her wasn't hurting her."

AND one more thought from Marilee Strong about District Attorney's and why they may take a while to take the case to trial:

"I sympathize with DAs because you only get one try. If he's exonerated because there's no evidence, even if the body shows up in his backyard after that he can't be retried."

Definately don't want to go too soon! Better to wait until you have all you need right in place. I do believe that's about where we are now.