I would think we here would all prefer Lou Smit but perhaps a neophyte would have a fresh viewpoint. I guess one could say that a 'fresh' viewpoint can in certain respects be a 'better' viewpoint, but that is not always true.

I think what really happened is that after the "egg on face" of the Kreepy Karr episode, the DA decided that a little investment in trying to really solve the case might help and that certainly a neophyte type to sort through things and figure out what is and what is not 'known' won't hurt her reputation the next time someone confesses for their fifteen minutes of fame.

Given this case is really a cold case there must be some impetus for Lacy to request this sum. I assume Mark Spray will be the investigator as he's already on the payroll.

While I don't agree with all that Lacy has done, I do applaud her for taking this necessary step and showing her deep wish to solve the case.
I think in honor of the 10th anniversary, we should all take a moment to write and thank her.

Merry Christmas to all!

I surely hope so! There are many, many proven, experienced investigators out there (besides Lou Smit) who might be what is needed to get the impetus needed to rekindle a new, active investigation. But, like Jams says, it would take a great deal of time for a "newby" just to familiarize himself with all the evidence already gathered. But if such a person can work side by side with some of those already familiar with the case, then it shouldn't take too long for him to catch up. Of course, there is always the danger that such a person would pass along already formed opinions and ideas that would besmirch the freshness a new investigator can bring. So, in that respect, care should be taken to assure no one tries to sway a new investigation. Let the evidence be the guide. ALL the evidence!

Edited to add: The thought just struck me! Things have been rather quiet about the Davie(s) case. Have they brought him back from Australia? Has he dropped some info on the JB case that Lacy wants investigated? Seems that when things get too quiet--like they are now, in the Davie case--things start poppin'.

It may just be 'lets hire someone to deal with all these calls and letters and emails' that the Tenth Anniversary pieces are generating.