The Nuesleins came to court in Towson every day, and say they were preparing for a third trial, debating whether they would stay overnight in Towson rather than driving back home each night to Pennsylvania, where they now live.
"You get worried," said Joe Nueslein, who, with his wife, has raised their grandson. "We didn't think he should get another trial the first time."
But then they got the call.
On Jan. 2, Baltimore County Circuit Judge Kathleen G. Cox denied Kulbicki's request for a new trial.
Defense attorneys say they plan to appeal the ruling. But the Nuesleins were relieved to be able to honor Gina and the anniversary of her death without a third trial looming.
"It's a rough period for us every year," Joe Nueslein said of the six days between the date Gina disappeared and the date of her burial.
"There are periods of crying and praying, but it doesn't do any good," Geraldine Nueslein said. "People say, `Pray, pray.' But she's still not here. That's what matters."
jennifer.mcmenamin@ baltsun.com
