November 23rd, 2016
Dr. George Tiller Family Statement – through the District Attorney’s
Office, Marc Bennett
For Immediate Release
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Seven and a half years ago, on Sunday, May 31st, 2009, Dr. George Tiller was
assassinated while attending Church in the presence of his family, friends, and
fellow parishioners. Nothing will change that fact. We continue to grieve the loss of
a dear husband, father, grandfather, physician, and friend.
After a very difficult and emotionally draining trial, the defendant was found guilty
of first-degree premeditated murder and received the appropriate “Hard 50”
sentence for the egregious nature of his crime. Our family will be forever grateful to
the District Attorney’s Office, the jury, the presiding judge, and all the law
enforcement officers and personnel who ensured that a fair trial and verdict were
delivered to the defendant.
Since that time, we have sought to heal as a family and cherish our collective
memories together. We have tried to embody the principles of kindness, courtesy,
justice, love, and respect that Dr. Tiller lived throughout his life.
Despite the unwanted overturn of the original “Hard 50” sentences nationwide by
the United States Supreme Court, our family has decided to abstain from further
legal proceedings and will not participate in another sentencing trial of the
convicted murderer. Instead, we have decided to support the current sentence of a
minimum 25 years in prison without parole.
There will be no further legal hearing or recourse afforded him. With this legal
closure, the Dr. George Tiller family will continue to heal and thrive and live fully in
our communities. We wish to convey our gratitude to all our friends and allies that
have stood by Dr. Tiller and our family for many, many years.
We thank Marc Bennett and the District Attorney’s Office for their legal expertise
and guidance. We believe in the rule of law and respect the prudence of the court.
Thank you.