2009

ANS’ The Beginning of the End: Just Say “Yes” To Drugs

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The following continues my summary of preliminary hearing testimony in the criminal case against Howard K. Stern and two doctors.  See more details here \”Three Ring Circus\”. FRIDAY: Next to take the witness stand was Ms. Jennifer Doss, a special agent with the California Department of Justice, Pharmaceutical Task Force.  She presented evidence that pseudonyms, coupled with a variety of doctors, pharmacies and associates, including Howard K. Stern (“HKS”), were utilized to procure prescriptions for Anna Nicole Smith (“ANS”).  She further corroborated her testimony with Homeland Security Agent Kenneth Krause’s report which documents multiple trips taken by defendants HKS and Eroshevich from California to the Bahamas. Special Agent Doss successfully tied in the transport of certain pharmaceuticals as well, including Demerol, Dalmane, Lorazepam and methadone – empty bottles of some of these drugs were later found in Eroshevich’s home. During cross-examination, HKS lawyer Steve Sadow attempted to show some of these medications were meant to treat HKS’ back problems – stemming from Botox injections.  Seriously?  Demerol for a back injection?  Is it possible HKS got botox in his back solely to get drugs for ANS-is it possible he attempted to defraud the doctor?  Hmmm…I wonder. MONDAY: Expert witness, Dr. Timothy Botello Read More …

Anna Maria Torres: Making Contact with Lady Justice’s Speed Bump

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In August 2007, 75 year-old Anna Maria Torres was pulling out of a driveway at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Placentia when she struck and killed 89 year old, Ms. Jessie Pound, who was walking across that same driveway.  Torres originally told police she attended an earlier mass and walked home, then testified that she did not hear, or, feel anything as she drove away…  A witness stated he heard Pound’s skull crack, and heard her screaming as the car’s wheels rolled over her and while Torres sped up. On Thursday, Torres was convicted of: one felony count of hit-and-run causing death; one misdemeanor count of vehicular manslaughter; and, one count of providing false information to a police officer.  She also received a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily injury.  At her upcoming sentencing in October, Torres could face a maximum prison sentence of 4 years.