Death sentence stands in slaying of DuPage family

[June 25, 2010]  SPRINGFIELD (AP) --  The Illinois Supreme Court has upheld the death sentence for a man convicted of murdering his parents, sister and brother-in-law.

The court rejected Eric Hanson's argument that some evidence was improperly admitted in his trial.

The justices unanimously ruled that Hanson can be executed. It's not clear when or if the sentence will ever be carried out because Illinois has halted executions.

Prosecutors said Hanson stole $80,000 from his parents and then turned violent after a sister revealed the theft.

His parents were shot in the head. His sister and her husband were beaten to death.

Hanson pleaded not guilty.

[Associated Press]

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