Closing Arguments Set for Today in 1985 San Marino Murder

Jury instructions and closing arguments are scheduled today in the trial of Christian K. Gerhartsreiter, who is accused of the 1985 slaying of a man in San Marino.

Authorities said Gerhartsreiter, 52, posed as a member of the Rockefeller family. Court proceedings are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. in Dept. 107 of the Criminal Courts Building in Downtown Los Angeles at 210 W. Temple St.

Gerhartsreiter is charged in the February 1985 slaying of his landlady’s son, John Sohus, whose wife disappeared about the same time. Known then as Christopher Chichester, Gerhartsreiter, lived in a guest house on the 1920 Lorain Road property.

Sohus’ remains were uncovered in May 1994 by an excavation crew preparing to build a swimming pool on the property for a new owner.

Gerhartsreiter is not charged in Linda Sohus’ disappearance, but the prosecutor alleged he arranged for postcards to be sent from Paris to family members and friends to give the appearance that they were traveling abroad.

Just as the prosecution ended its case, the prosecutor and the defense attorneys stipulated that there are no records of Linda Sohus ever applying for a passport or leaving or entering the United States since January 1985.