Despite Ruling, Goodwin Still in Jail

A state appellate court has refused to order the immediate release of former racing promoter Michael Goodwin, even though the same court ruled last month that there is not enough evidence to try him in Orange County on murder charges.

Goodwin has been in Orange County Jail for more than two years, under suspicion of killing racing legend Mickey Thompson and his wife, Trudy, outside their Los Angeles County home in 1988. On Monday, the 4th District Court of Appeal, without comment, denied Goodwin’s request for immediate release.

The Los Angeles County district attorney’s office has refused to prosecute Goodwin, citing insufficient evidence. But the Orange County district attorney’s office did file charges, alleging the murders were plotted in Orange County.

On April 23, the appellate court ordered the dismissal of charges against Goodwin, ruling that Orange County prosecutors could not prove they have jurisdiction. The judges’ opinion said: “The prosecuting county is not connected with the murders at all. That is the problem.”

After the ruling, Goodwin’s attorney, Jeffrey S. Benice, asked the judges to order Goodwin’s immediate release. On Monday, the court refused.

The ruling won’t become final for 60 days, meaning Goodwin will remain locked up at least into June.

Benice said Goodwin might have to remain in jail even longer, because Orange County prosecutors were expected to appeal to the state Supreme Court.

“Goodwin is very disappointed. He has to sit in the can for another 30 to 60 days, even though the [appellate] court said he is innocent. He has been locked up for 2 1/2 years. It’s an Orwellian and sad experience,” Benice said.

Benice said he would file another motion in June seeking Goodwin’s immediate release.