Prosecutors Fight Releasing Info on Informants in Murder Case
People continue to look for answers in the case of murdered radio host and veterans’ advocate April Kauffman. Two years ago, Kauffman was found shot to death in her Linwood, NJ home; the murder is still unsolved and no one has been charged. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office is fighting to keep the identities of two informants confidential.
The office is currently battling an April 21, 2014 subpoena requiring it to turn over all files relating to the investigation into Kauffman’s murder. The documents sought include the names and statements of numerous witnesses, plus the identities of the informants, according to Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain. Being that the case is still unsolved, it’s somewhat unclear who the informants are and what they have to do with the case.
Both the husband and daughter of the late Kauffman are also involved a federal lawsuit over who gets the $600,000 life insurance policy. Dr. James Kauffman sued the insurance company, because it would not pay him until it received official confirmation that he was not a suspect in the murder of his wife.
Kimberly Pack, Kauffman’s daughter, has filed a wrongful death and federal suit against her stepfather, claiming that he is responsible for the murder. A subpoena was filed by Dr. Kauffman’s attorneys, requesting that Atlantic Prosecutor’s Office Sgt. Michael Mattioli testify about his interview with Dr. Kauffman at the murder scene.
However, the Prosecutor’s Office claims that Mattioli testifying at a deposition would compromise its ability to present its case, according to the prosecutor’s motion. The office went further in saying that it did not understand what value that testimony would have in the insurance case.
If it is ruled that the information is not protected, the Prosecutor’s Office will request a protective order to restrict the disclosure of the data. It appears authorities are no closer to solving the mystery murder and there will be a long line of litigations and hearings before this sees any sort of resolution.
John W. Tumelty has over 35 years of experience defending the rights of NJ residents facing criminal charges. If you or someone you love has gotten into legal trouble, contact The Law Offices of John W. Tumelty today.
