Audio tapes that turned up in the federal probe against former Westchester District Attorney Jeanine Pirro have shed light on her behind-the-scene thoughts in a 1994 murder case.Anthony DiSimone was convicted of killing a Mercy College student in 1994. However, the conviction was overturned when it was discovered that Pirro?s office withheld evidence that may have exonerated DiSimone and pointed to other suspects.

The discussions about that case were secretly recorded by Pirro herself. In an excerpt of a 1997 conversation in Pirro's office, U.S. attorney Mark Pomerantz informs Pirro, "There's a witness who may have information to the effect that Darren and Nick were involved in the Balancio homicide.? Pirro replies, ?Oh god." In a follow-up conversation Pirro asks Pomerantz, "How can we find out...because we have a lot on the line...and I really don't mean to be pushy but I gotta know how to handle this in the morning."

The recorded conversations only came to light because Pirro is now the subject of a federal investigation for allegedly plotting to bug her husband?s boat when she thought he was having an affair. Pirro?s newly hired defense attorney, William Aronwald, maintains Pirro did nothing wrong in recording the conversations. Aronwald also says Pirro denies the allegations that she wanted the tapes destroyed when she left office.Related Information Indictment possible as Pirro federal probe widens