COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A former sheriff's deputy who investigated the killing of a postmistress nearly 25 years ago now says he doubts the guilt of the man sentenced in her death.
Former Hancock County sheriff's deputy Brad Bell says - quote - "something doesn't smell right" - in the case against John Spirko.
Despite a lack of physical evidence, Spirko was convicted and sentenced to death in the 1982 killing of Betty Jane Mottinger.
Mottinger's family and the postal inspector involved in the investigation are still convinced the state convicted the right man. Inspector Paul Hartman says Spirko gave authorities details about the crime only the killer would know.
Spirko denies ever making a confession. After three stays, his execution is set for July 19.
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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