Peterson's laywers: Hearsay law unconstitutional

JOLIET -- Attorneys for Drew Peterson are trying to prevent prosecutors from using statements his ex-wife made before her death.

In a motion filed Monday, attorneys argue the Illinois hearsay law is unconstitutional and would allow Kathleen Savio to testify from beyond the grave. The law was enacted last year.

The motion was expected. After Peterson's arrest this year for the 2004 slaying of Savio, Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow said he planned to use the new law to let Savio tell jurors why Peterson wanted her dead.

Peterson's attorneys say the law is unconstitutional because it would allow gossip, rumor and innuendo to be admitted into evidence. They also say it would be unconstitutional to use a law passed after a crime was committed.