Crime & Safety
Penalty Phase Begins in Century City Stabbing Case
Prosecutors will seek the death penalty against James Michael Fayed, who was found guilty of murder and conspiracy in the death of his wife.
The penalty phase in the trial of James Michael Fayed began Friday after he was convicted of first degree murder and conspiracy in the death of his estranged wife.
Pamela Fayed was stabbed to death three years ago in the Watt Tower parking garage in Century City, after meeting with attorneys and her husband regarding a federal investigation into their gold trading business. Her husband was convicted of paying an employee $25,000 to arrange the killing.
According to a press release from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, the jury deliberated for two days before delivering the guilty verdict, which included a finding for special circumstances for murder for financial gain and lying in wait. Fayed is eligible for the death penalty, and the DA's release says that prosecutors will seek it.
