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Fourth murder trial closes for Wilbert Rideau in 1961 case
Testimony wrapped up in Lake Charles as Wilbert Rideau, 62, faces closing arguments in his fourth murder trial for killing Julia Ferguson, a white bank teller, during a 1961 botched robbery. Prosecution seeks life imprisonment. defense requests manslaughter amid claims of impulsive act during harsh racial climate. Two other bank workers were kidnapped but survived. Rideau has been twice convicted and twice overturned, with parole advocates noting his editorial work at The Angelite.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Lake Charles
Wilbert Rideau
Julia Ferguson
Rideau
Ferguson
Louisiana
State Pardon Board
State Penitentiary
the Angelite