New trial for Patrick Wollett?

Posted: Mar 12, 2010 9:04 PM by Monica Quintero
Updated: Mar 12, 2010 9:04 PM

The family of a man who was killed wants the man convicted in their son's death to receive a new trial. Patrick Wollett, 20-years-old, was convicted of first degree murder back in June. He was one of two men found responsible for killing 36-year-old Joshua Houlgate on December 6th of 2007. On Friday, Wollett was back in court. His attorney was asking the judge for a new trial.

It was a gruesome scene more than 2 years ago. Houlgate was beaten, shot and killed. Tom McCormick, Wollett's Attorney, said, "There should have been various experts that should have been consulted in this case that may have turned the case around. " Wollett sat quietly with his new attorney by his side and his former attorney testifying against him on the stand. His new attorney claims he was not well represented. What's shocking, Houlgate's family agrees.

Houlgate's father talked with KSBY by phone. He said he felt Wollett did not receive an adequate defense. As to whether Wollett's guilty of his son's death, Houlgate's father stated he'll reserve judgement until the matter is settled.

Meanwhile, Greg Jacobson, Wollett's former attorney, defended his actions. One argument made was that Wollett never took the stand during the trial. Jacobson said he believed Wollett testifying would destroy the case because Wollett kept changing his story. Mccormick said, "He specifically stated to the jurors this is not Mr. Wollett's case, this is basically my decision. I'm not going to let this young man make that decision for me."

Jacobson and the prosecution declined to talk with us on camera. However, the prosecution made clear they do not believe Wollett should receive a new trial. The judge did not make a decision on Friday. They will head back to court April 23rd. If a new trial is not granted, they will proceed with Wollett's sentencing. Chad Westbrook was also convicted and sentenced to 67 years to life for first degree murder in Houlgate's death. Westbrook is appealing his case.