In a recent episode of the renowned podcast "Hidden Killers," former prosecutor Laurie Gilbertson joined host Tony Brueski for a penetrating discussion on the Lori Vallow DeBell sentencing. The case, under the national spotlight, has raised eyebrows and spurred many questions, particularly about Vallow DeBell's strange behavior and statements during the sentencing.

 

"Clearly delusional and completely off base from the reality that everyone else in the room had gone through," is how Gilbertson described the eight-minute rant from Vallow DeBell during her sentencing. She proceeded to speculate that Vallow DeBell likely overruled her attorney's advice against making a statement. Gilbertson noted that it's uncommon for defense attorneys to encourage their clients to speak, as it typically doesn't benefit their cause.

 

"Lori wanted to share with everybody all of the delusional things that were in her head," Gilbertson said. She suggested that Vallow DeBell's decision to make a statement demonstrated her desire for attention and a disregard for its effect on the families involved, as well as the implications it could have on her own sentencing.

 

Gilbertson also addressed the surprisingly affectionate tone of the defense attorney's statement, describing it as an almost "love letter nature." She further noted, "It went above and beyond vigorously defending his client."

 

Gilbertson speculated that the defense attorney's sentiments, which she referred to as "bizarre," might have resulted from prolonged exposure to Vallow DeBell during the trial. She also suggested that the attorney's statement lacked an understanding of how his words would be perceived and the damage they could do to his client's case.

 

The former prosecutor also shared insights on what's next for Vallow DeBell. "She'll be extradited to Arizona eventually here by the end of the year to face the charges in the death of Charles Vallow," Gilbertson revealed.

 

However, the question of whether Vallow DeBell is mentally competent to stand trial in Arizona has arisen. Gilbertson shared that Vallow DeBell's mental health had prompted her to investigate how Arizona handles such cases, especially given Idaho's lack of an insanity defense.

 

Gilbertson raised the issue of the feasibility of another trial for Vallow DeBell, given the resources it would require, the toll it would take on the victims' families, and the fact that she had already been sentenced to life terms. However, Gilbertson also acknowledged the importance of justice for the other victim, Charles Vallow.

 

Regarding Vallow DeBell's future representation, Gilbertson said, "Maybe she will have an attorney more grounded in reality, who will choose to handle this in a more pragmatic way than spouting craziness."

 

The Lori Vallow DeBell case has stirred a national conversation about legal defense strategies and mental health's role in criminal cases. This insightful dialogue between Tony Brueski and Laurie Gilbertson offers a deeper understanding of the complex issues.

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