SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – A three-judge panel has refused to take up an appeal by David Aesoph, who is serving life in the South Dakota Penitentiary for the 1999 death of his wife at their farm near Highmore.
A federal judge earlier this year denied Aesoph’s request to overturn his murder conviction in state court because of constitutional violations. Now, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has denied his request to review the case.
The 53-year-old Aesoph said his wife Tania died in an accidental fall down a flight of stairs while he was away. Prosecutors said Aesoph killed her to collect life insurance and to prevent losing assets in a divorce.
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