"You are correct, she was the judge in the George Ryan License Selling Scandal, but she was also the judge on several nasty drug trials and these murders were done execution style, one bullet to the back of the head of both vicitims."
I've been thinking about this, and though ws's are suspect, they are more bark than bite and haven't done too many political killings. If this was Hale-related, why wait so long? I think this was a professional job perpetrated by an intelligent killer who KNEW racists would be suspect and that it would be sensationalized. A braindead, rag-tag "creator" wouldn't get past the security system, neither would a druggie. This killer probably got paid by a wealthy client. .22's are often used in professional hit jobs. Just ask the mob.
We still don't know if the house was burglarized. The last thing Joan would want to do right now is search through her belongings to see if anything is missing. As the day goes on, more light should be shed on this.
Remember freepers that the liberal media has already framed this debate. When wealthy, powerful people fall victim to this kind of crime, there are many possible motives and suspects.
Remember terrorists and like ilk have patience. Back then it could have seemed obvious; but letting time lapse would leave "reasonable doubt". Just my opinion. ;)