Drew Peterson confirmed to the crime web publication that he met with Leving—famous as the champion of father’s rights—to determine if Stacy’s “desertion” of him would be sufficient cause for divorce action in Illinois.

Reporter Derek Armstrong says he confronted Peterson by phone, asking for confirmation prior to releasing the story. He says Peterson repeatedly denied the meeting, until reminded he had disclosed his intention to divorce Stacy in an interview for the tell-all book 'Drew Peterson Exposed,' authored by Armstrong and published in October.  Armstrong says Peterson told him: “I’m just getting information right now. I’m exploring options.”

Divorce for Desertion?

When asked how he could apply for a divorce in the circumstances, given he is a suspect in her disappearance, Armstrong says he replied, “Desertion. She deserted me. I’ve always said I’m mad about that. But I’m looking into this for the kids. This neighborhood is not healthy for my kids.”

Pressed on whether he intended to sell the house and marital assets, Peterson offered no comment, but when asked if he would like to move away, he said, “(Getting) out of the neighborhood is important for the kids. Some of the people around here are nuts.”

Pending Gun Trial May Limit a Move Out of Illinois

Peterson may find moving away limited because of a pending trial where he faces felony gun charges for allegedly possessing a modified assault rifle with a barrel of less than 16 inches and therefore a violation of Illinois law, the state has charged.

Leving is known for championing father’s rights and is not afraid of controversy himself.  He represented Elian Gonzales’ Cuban father who eventually won his battle for custody of Elian from Elian’s Miami-based family who were raising him and fought to keep him.  Elian’s mother died fleeing Cuba; Elian survived the journey. 

Leving had no comment beyond confirming that Peterson came to his office.

In several previous interviews with Armstrong, for the book Drew Peterson Exposed, Peterson indicated he felt persecuted by continual media coverage. 

When asked if he expected Stacy Peterson to ever return, Armstrong says Peterson replied, “Why would she return to all this?” Armstrong says Peterson declined to comment on whether he’d sell the house he shares with Stacy or dispose of any marital assets.

Peterson, 54, is also as suspect in the alleged homicide of his third wife Kathleen Savio. 

Read Peterson’s full interview with Armstrong on the Drew Peterson Exposed Web site. 

Contact:
Derek Armstrong, author 'Drew Peterson Exposed'
Email: exposed@kunati.com
Phone: 647-273-5331
Weblinks: http://www.kunati.com/exposed or www.derekarmstrong.com