By MICHAEL T. BURKHART
Courier-Post Staff
FREEHOLD
Defense attorney Michael Riley credits those who spoke Thursday on behalf of Rabbi Fred J. Neulander for saving his life.
"It was compelling," Riley said of the statements. "It was emotional."
Among those who asked the jury to spare the rabbi's life was his youngest son, Benjamin. Also speaking were two former Congregation M'kor Shalom members. Former M'kor Shalom Rabbi Gary Mazo wrote a letter on his behalf.
"Obviously, we're quite pleased the jury decided not to impose the death penalty," Riley said outside the Monmouth County courthouse shortly after the verdict.
Riley said Neulander's conviction of capital murder, felony murder and conspiracy would be appealed, largely on technical aspects. Neulander was convicted Wednesday of hiring Leonard Jenoff and Paul Michael Daniels to kill his wife, Carol, on Nov. 1, 1994, and make it look like a botched burglary.
Neulander continues to take the position that he is innocent, Riley said.
The attorney, a former Burlington County prosecutor, said the Neulander case was tough. The complex web included more than 8,000 pages of discovery alone.
Neulander took the stand Friday morning and asked the jury to spare his life. In his 22-minute statement, the 61- year-old Neulander said he loved and still loves his wife and that he would lead a productive life in prison.
"I thought his testimony had high and corresponding low spots," said Riley, who would not elaborate.
Riley said he plans to return to his legal workload, which has piled up in recent weeks. He said he did not know if he would continue to represent Neulander.
Reach Michael T. Burkhart at (856) 486-2474 or mburkhart@courierpostonline.com
