1/8/13 - Opening statements were heard and testimony began this morning in the case against 66-year-old Jerome Kowalski. Heâs accused of murdering his brother Richard and his wife Brenda Kowalski in 2008 at their Lyngre Drive home in Oceola Township. In her opening statement, Assistant Prosecutor Pamela Maas claimed that Kowalski had a long standing grudge with her brother, which culminating in the murder. She compared the brotherâs relationship to that of Cain and Abel. Defense attorney Walter Piszczatowski argued that Kowalski always avoided conflict and would stray away from his brother if a confrontation was likely. He also pointed out inconsistencies and factual errors in the confession Kowalski gave police following the killings. He says the evidence points to a professional execution-style killing rather than a crime of passion. Jurors also heard testimony from the trooper who first responded to the scene and the medical examiner investigator who handled the bodies. (JK)
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