Kevorkian On Trial, Again

PONTIAC, Mich.: Twice acquitted of assisted suicide charges, Dr. Jack Kevorkian faces a third trial today under Michigan state common law, which leaves fewer options for the defense. Kevorkian is charged in conjunction with the 1991 deaths of Sherry Miller, who had multiple sclerosis, and Marjorie Wantz, who suffered from severe pelvic pain. In the two previous trials Kevorkian was acquitted because Michigan's now defunct assisted suicide law included a provision that exempted physician's who were attempting to control a patient's pain and suffering. Under common-law prosecution, the state must prove that Kevorkian knew that the women wished to commit suicide and that he provided them with the means to end their lives. If convicted, Kevorkian faces up to five years in prison.