A verdict has been reached in the death of Laci Peterson and the fetus that she was carrying. Her husband, Scott Peterson, has been found guilty of first degree murder of Laci and second-degree murder in the death of "their unborn son Conner" in December of 2002. (Case details from the Modesto Police) The first-degree conviction, which carries as a potential sentence either the death penalty or life without parole, meant that jurors believe Peterson planned the killing. The second-degree murder conviction did not require a finding of premeditation and carries a potential sentence of 15 years to life for each count. The bodies of Laci and the fetus were discovered in the San Francisco Bay near Berkeley. Women's and pro-choice advocates were appalled when the 7 1/2-month gestation fetus was given a name and referred to as their unborn son- this was part of the atmosphere that led to the passage and signing by President George W. Bush of the Unborn Victims of Violence Act. Analysis from a Peace and Freedom Party Voter