Winona, MN Criminal Defense Attorney J.P. Plachecki discusses the cases he’s taken on involving various violent crimes. Throughout his career, the individual has been extensively engaged in appeals related to murder cases. Prior to his tenure with the government, he played a significant role in authoring two briefs for first-degree murder cases in Massachusetts. These cases yielded differing outcomes: one was a success, while the other resulted in partial success. He was notably involved in pioneering efforts surrounding the battered woman syndrome defense, exemplified by his work on the Eugena Moore case. Another noteworthy case was that of Louis Santos, wherein he contributed to securing Santos’ release.

Recalling the Louis Santos case, a striking detail comes to light. Amidst the appeal records, a particular instance stands out—the sole eyewitness to the murder was Charles Bartick, a man with mild intellectual challenges. During the trial, he was asked to identify the assailant, yet instead of pointing to the individual seated at counsel table, he pointed to someone situated 30 rows back in the gallery. This person turned out to be the defendant’s brother. This incident stirred a profound reaction, causing a visceral response. At that moment, the individual contemplated reaching out to Louis Santos’ mother, with the intention of conveying the news of his impending release after completing the brief. However, due to the constraints imposed by the firm he was associated with, this action was regrettably hindered.