LUDINGTON, Mich. (Mar. 3, 2014) — A former U.S. Attorney will help defense team of Sean Phillips, accused of killing his 5-month-old daughter Kate.
John Smietanka confirmed to FOX 17 Monday that he will be on Phillips’ taxpayer-funded defense team. The state attorney general announced in October 2o13 that would prosecute Phillips.
Smietanka, a former U.S. attorney for the West Michigan District, said he will advise David Glancy, the attorney appointed to represent Phillips in the trial. He will also work alongside Gene Debbaudt, a former head of West Michigan’s FBI office.
Phillips is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence after being convicted of unlawful imprisonment for taking Kate from her mother in the summer of 2011. Baby Kate has never been found.