Mistrial Declared in Susan Polk Murder Trial

A mistrial was declared today in the murder trial of Susan Polk, accused of killing her wealthy therapist husband, because of the murder of the wife of her lead attorney, Daniel Horowitz, over the weekend.

Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge Laurel Brady cited excessive media coverage in announcing her decision. Sources said it was obvious that the jury had learned of the murder of Horowitz's wife, Pamela Vitale.

"It would have been hard to miss, despite my admonitions," she told the jury when announcing her decision.

The body of Pamela Vitale, 52, was found by her husband Daniel Horowitz Saturday afternoon in the entryway of a mobile home the couple was living in while building their dream house on the property.

Polk was on trial for the stabbing death of her husband, 70-year-old Frank (Felix) Polk, while the couple was getting a divorce in October 2002.

See Also:
Mistrial Declared in Polk Case After Attorney's Wife Murdered
Mistrial in Susan Polk Murder Trial
'I Just Wanted to Grow Old With Her'
Murder of Lafayette Lawyer's Wife Stuns Friends, Neighbors

Background:
Susan Polk: Murder or Self-Defense?
Wife of Attorney Daniel Horowitz Found Dead

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