Kennedy Cousin Michael Skakel Has First Parole Hearing; Claims He is Innocent of 1975 Murder
Michael Skakel, the Kennedy cousin serving a 20-years-to-life sentence for the 1975 fatal beating of Martha Moxley, had his first parole hearing Wednesday.
According to the Connecticut Post, Skakel told the state’s Board of Pardons and Paroles that he is innocent of the crime, which allegedly happened when he was 15 years old. He was convicted in 2002, after it was found that he beat Moxley to death with a golf club.
Skakel, the nephew of Ethel Kennedy, told the three-member body that he prays every day the person who did kill Moxley will be brought to justice.
“If I could ease Mrs. Moxley’s pain in any way, shape or form I would take responsibility all day long for this crime,” said Skakel, 52. But, he continued, “I cannot bear false witness against myself.”
Moxley’s parents attended the hearing, according to the Associated Press, and they say they believe Skakel is guilty of killing their daughter.
