Mistrial declared in Susan Van Note case

A mistrial has been declared in the murder case for Susan Van Note in LaClede County.

Van Note, a former Kansas City attorney, is charged with two counts of first degree murder and forgery for the brutal October 2010 deaths of her father and his girlfriend.

On Tuesday, the defense asked for a mistrial, fearing a tainted jury.

Camden Co. Prosecutor Michael Gilley told ABC 17 Van Note’s attorneys had concerns with members of the pool discussing the case during breaks.

Jurors are only allowed to base their decision off evidence in the court, not anything presented before.

“In order to be fair, if there is any issue with the jury panel, neither side wants that. In the pursuit of justice and fairness, the mistrial was declared,” said Camden Co. Prosecutor Michael Gilley.

Prosecutors said William Van Note and Sharon Dickson were shot at their Lake vacation home in 2010. Mr. Van Note died in a Columbia hospital four days after being shot; prosecutors say Susan Van Note had shown doctors a forged health care power of attorney document.

The case was moved from Camden County to Laclede County on a change of venue, and Judge Kenneth Michael Hayden will preside over the trial. One hundred and twenty five prospective jurors were summoned to the Laclede County Courthouse on Tuesday. Jury selection began at 9:30 a.m. and wrapped up late Tuesday afternoon.

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster’s office was assisting the Camden County prosecutor in the case. If convicted, Susan Van Note would face a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole.