WASHINGTON – A Washington, D.C., woman convicted of killing her four daughters is expected back in court for a hearing on her refusal to use an insanity defense.
Banita Jacks was found in her southeast Washington row house in January 2008 with her children's decomposing bodies.
Her lawyers had wanted her to plead not guilty by reason of insanity. They say the 34-year-old wasn't competent when she rejected that advice.
The defense has asked Judge Frederick H. Weisberg to appoint an independent counsel to investigate. Prosecutors say there's no need. They'll be in court Friday.
If Weisberg rejects the defense request, he could move quickly to Jacks' sentencing. Prosecutors have already filed a memorandum asking that she get a life term.
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