Mike Peterson's Attorney Hopes Mum's The Word In Germany

DURHAM, N.C. — Attorneys for Mike Peterson are trying to keep witnesses in Germany clear of local media.

Peterson is accused of murdering his wife, Kathleen, in 2001 in Durham. Members of the prosecution and defense teams are traveling to Germany to find out more about the 1985 death of a friend of Peterson's, Elizabeth Ratliff, whose death had similarities to Kathleen Peterson's. A recent autopsy showed Ratliff was the victim of a homicide.

Defense attorney David Rudolf asked prosecutors to tell witnesses not to talk to reporters traveling to Germany. He said it will hurt Peterson's chances for a fair trial.

Opening statements are scheduled to start soon, but attorneys still need three more alternates. Four potential jurors were dismissed Monday.