Drew Peterson, a former police officer and convicted felon, is a complex figure whose story has captured the attention of the American public. In teaching students about Drew Peterson, educators have an opportunity to engage with topics such as law enforcement, ethics, and the criminal justice system. In this article, we will explore approaches to presenting the case of Drew Peterson to students in an educational setting.
Background on Drew Peterson
Before diving into discussions about ethics and the criminal justice system, it is important to provide students with a basic understanding of Drew Peterson’s background. Born in 1954, Drew Peterson worked in law enforcement for 30 years before retiring as a Bolingbrook Police Sergeant. His personal life attracted media attention due to his multiple marriages and allegations of spousal abuse.
In 2007, Kathleen Savio – one of Peterson’s ex-wives – was found dead under suspicious circumstances. In 2009, another one of Peterson’s wives, Stacy Ann Cales Peterson, disappeared without a trace. These incidents propelled him into the national spotlight as suspicions arose concerning his involvement.
Teaching Ethics Amid Controversy
The case of Drew Peterson provides an excellent opportunity for educators to discuss ethics within law enforcement. Teachers can engage students by posing questions such as:
– What role does law enforcement play in society? What is their responsibility to citizens?
– How might a law enforcement officer like Drew Peterson manage their ethical responsibilities both on and off duty?
– How do you think public perception of police might be affected by cases like that of Drew Peterson?
Exploring the Criminal Justice System
Drew Peterson’s legal battles provide an opportunity to teach students about various aspects of the criminal justice system. Teachers can detail:
– The process by which police gather evidence
– The role of prosecutors in deciding whether to file charges
– The legal proceedings of criminal trials, from jury selection to sentencing
Teachers can also discuss the development of the “Drew Peterson Law,” a piece of legislation enacted in Illinois. It allows courts to consider hearsay evidence – statements made by unavailable witnesses – in cases where the defendant is accused of causing the witness’s unavailability. It played a crucial role in Drew Peterson’s conviction for the murder of Kathleen Savio.
Analyzing Media Coverage
The high-profile nature of Drew Peterson’s case can serve as an exploration of the role of media in shaping public perception. Teachers can address questions such as:
– How does media coverage affect perceptions of guilt or innocence?
– Should journalists prioritize accuracy and objectivity, even in cases involving gruesome details and compelling narratives?
– Did sensationalized media attention lead to a fair or unfair outcome for Drew Peterson?
