Ex-boyfriend found guilty of murdering Hollywood Hills therapist.
Ex-Boyfriend Convicted of First-Degree Murder in Hollywood Hills Balcony Death
In a dramatic conclusion to a high-profile case, Gareth Pursehouse, the ex-boyfriend of renowned marriage and sex therapist Amie Harwick, has been found guilty of first-degree murder. The jury in downtown Los Angeles deliberated for two days before reaching their verdict on September 28, 2023.
Pursehouse, a 45-year-old resident of Playa del Rey, was convicted for the killing of Harwick, who tragically fell from the third-floor balcony of her Hollywood Hills home on February 15, 2020. The jury also found him guilty of first-degree burglary and a special circumstance allegation of murder while lying in wait. Pursehouse now faces a life sentence without parole, with his sentencing scheduled for December 6.
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During the closing arguments, prosecutors painted a chilling picture of the events leading to Harwick’s death. They described how Pursehouse broke into her home, waited for hours, and then launched a brutal attack, ultimately throwing her off the balcony. However, the defense argued that Harwick may have fallen while attempting to escape after a confrontation with another man.
Deputy District Attorney Victor Avila emphasized that Pursehouse had planned to end Harwick’s life, highlighting her fear and the restraining order she had obtained against him in 2012. Avila portrayed Pursehouse as a man consumed by anger and rejection, stating that he “didn’t go there to talk” but rather had a mission fueled by his emotions.
The prosecutor detailed how Pursehouse broke into Harwick’s home, subjected her to a violent assault, and ultimately dropped her from the balcony. Avila dismissed any suggestion of depression, asserting that Pursehouse’s actions were driven by rage.
Harwick and Pursehouse had been in a relationship for 18 months years earlier, but it ended with Harwick obtaining a restraining order against him. Defense attorney Robin Bernstein-Lev argued that Pursehouse’s emotions overwhelmed him, leading to his impulsive actions on the night of the incident. She claimed that Pursehouse’s intentions were not to cause Harwick’s death and questioned the prosecution’s evidence.
In her rebuttal, Deputy District Attorney Catherine Mariano emphasized Harwick’s fear of Pursehouse and his desire to punish her for shutting him out. Mariano disputed the defense’s theory that Harwick fell accidentally, pointing to the autopsy results that revealed blunt force injuries and manual strangulation as the cause of death.
The tragic incident occurred in the early morning hours of February 15, 2020. Police responded to a 911 call from Harwick’s roommate, who reported hearing screams from their Hollywood Hills home on Mound Street. Harwick, a published author and former fiancée of comedian Drew Carey, was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead.
On social media, Carey expressed his grief, sharing a video of him with Harwick and expressing his love for her. Pursehouse was initially arrested on the day of Harwick’s death but was released on bail. However, he was re-arrested a few days later and has been held without bail since then.
How did Amie Harwick’s tragic death spark conversations about domestic violence and the safety of women, and what can society do to address these issues and prevent future tragedies
The overwhelming evidence against Pursehouse, including surveillance footage, witness testimony, and DNA found at the scene. Avila argued that the burglary charge was justified based on the evidence of forced entry into Harwick’s home.
The defense, led by attorney Lou Shapiro, attempted to create doubt by suggesting that another individual may have been responsible for Harwick’s death. However, the jury ultimately rejected this theory and found Pursehouse guilty on all charges.
Amie Harwick was a well-known and respected marriage and sex therapist, dedicated to helping others in their relationships and personal lives. Her tragic death sent shockwaves through the Hollywood community and beyond, sparking conversations about domestic violence and the safety of women.
Pursehouse and Harwick had dated on and off for several years before their relationship ended in 2019. According to friends and acquaintances, Harwick expressed concerns about Pursehouse’s behavior and had obtained a temporary restraining order against him prior to her death.
This case highlights the importance of taking threats and signs of domestic violence seriously. Harwick’s story serves as a reminder that anyone can become a victim, regardless of their profession or social status. It is crucial for individuals in abusive relationships to seek help and support from their communities, law enforcement, and domestic violence organizations.
The conviction of Gareth Pursehouse is a step towards justice for Amie Harwick and a message to perpetrators of domestic violence that their actions will not go unpunished. However, it is also a somber reminder of the lives lost due to intimate partner violence and the need for continued efforts to prevent such tragedies.
In the wake of this case, it is essential for communities to come together to support survivors, raise awareness about domestic violence, and advocate for stronger legal protections. By addressing this issue head-on and providing resources for those in need, we can work towards creating a society where everyone feels safe and protected in their relationships.
As December 6 approaches, the sentencing hearing will provide an opportunity for the court to consider the gravity of Pursehouse’s actions and determine an appropriate punishment. While nothing can bring Amie Harwick back, her memory and the injustice of her death will serve as a catalyst for change and a call to action against domestic violence.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure that tragedies like this do not repeat themselves. Let us honor Amie Harwick’s memory by working towards a world where everyone can live free from fear and violence in their own homes.
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