RODRIGUEZ APPEAL MAY BE HEARD IN '08

Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. was found guilty of Pequot Lakes woman Dru Sjodin's kidnapping and murder roughly sixteen months ago. Federal attorney Drew Wrigley said he's hopeful that the death penalty appeal will be heard next year. Defense attorneys have asked for four extensions to begin their appeal to the 8th Circuit Court. The latest reqest moved the argument date to February 4th. Rodriguez was sentenced on February 8th, 2007. The Death Penalty Resource Counsel said most defense attorneys file opening appeal briefs in about eight months and most appeals last between six and eight years. Wrigley told the Fargo Forum that if the plan is to wear down the United States, that's not going to happen.