Defense Seeks New Trial in Tiller Killing

The man convicted of killing Kansas abortion provider Dr. George Tiller is asking for a new trial or an order of acquittal.

Scott Roeder was convicted last month in state court on a charge of first-degree murder. Roeder had admitted shooting Tiller last May 31 during services at the doctor's Wichita church.

In a motion for a new trial made public Monday, Roeder's lawyers cite adverse rulings by the trial judge - including a refusal to let the jury consider the lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter.

Such court filings are routine, but important to preserve the record on appeal issues.

Arguments on the defense motion will be heard in March.